A Very COVID Christmas: How to Celebrate Safely
Read MoreUpdated March 2, 2020
A newly discovered respiratory virus deemed Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) by the CDC originated in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Inspira Health's clinical leadership teams are closely monitoring the situation and have put procedures in place to protect patients, visitors and staff should a person — who meets current criteria for suspicion of COVID-19 — visit an Inspira facility. Inspira facilities are following the most current guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and local health authorities to appropriately screen, isolate and manage patients who meet the criteria.
Anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms should seek care as they normally would, immediately alerting the health care facility or health care provider if they have travelled to the affected areas within the past 30 days; or have been in close contact with someone who has been under investigation for, or is a confirmed case of, COVID-19.
Anyone concerned that they or a loved one might be displaying clinical distress (such as breathing difficulties) should call 9-1-1 as they normally would. For general questions regarding the coronavirus, the New Jersey Poison Control Center has providers available to answer your questions. The number is 1-800-222-1222.
This situation continues to evolve. For more information about COVID-19 please visit How COVID-19 Spreads.
Prevention
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
