COVID-19 is known to share many symptoms with the common flu virus. Some mild symptoms like running nose, dry coughing, or fever may not be cause for alarm. However, if you are having severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or other respiratory issues, call 9-1-1 immediately and advise them of your symptoms. Some emergency warning signs for COVID-19 may include:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale or blue skin, lips, or nail beds
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to or are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19, the following steps will help protect you and reduce the spread of illness to others :
- Call your primary health care provider or local public health agency to discuss your symptoms over the phone
- Visit your Ministry of Health website for available self-assessment questionnaires to determine if you need to seek further care
- Stay home and self-isolate (unless directed to seek medical care)
- Avoid public transportation
- Avoid visitors and individuals in hospitals and long-term care centres, especially those at risk of developing severe illnesses
- Have supplies delivered to your home and left outside
- Practice good hygiene
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing and sneezing
- Clean your hands often
- Wear a mask and maintain a 2-metre distance from others
- Avoid sharing personal household items
- Clean and disinfect all "high-touch" surfaces everyday
- Self-monitor, self-isolate, and get medical attention immediately if your condition changes to show more severe symptoms
- Getting tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or close contact with someone infected with COVID-19.
While not all flu-like symptoms are directly related to COVID-19, it is always best to be cautious and think of the well-being of others. At the very least, remain indoors as suggested by your local public health unit to avoid spreading the COVID-19 virus.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/COVID-19-What-to-do-if-you-get-sick
