Coronavirus (COVID-19) Fact Sheet for Memorial Park Psychiatry
Posted on March 12, 2020
In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), Memorial Park Psychiatry is adopting the most current recommendations for preventing and containing the spread of the novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, and include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. While many people recover from this virus without trouble, there are certain factors that increase a person’s risk of developing more serious health complications. People who are immunocompromised, in close and regular contact with the virus, and older people are all more vulnerable to this disease.
The best defense against the novel coronavirus at this time is good hand hygiene; by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, and by limiting the number of times you touch your face, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick. If you are sick, make sure to cough or sneeze into your elbow, and contact your primary care provider.
Aside from observing good hand hygiene practices, the CDC recommendations include:
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If you plan to see a primary care provider about your symptoms, call ahead to ask about infection prevention during your visit.
- If you are sick and must leave home, ask your primary care provider about wearing a mask.
- If you are not sick, you do not need to wear a mask to prevent infection; disposable facemasks are designed to contain germs, not to keep them out.
If you are currently sick (coughing, fever, etc), you should not come to the office for your regular appointment. Please call your clinician who can help you reschedule.
If you have health concerns or believe that you have been exposed to the virus, please call your primary care provider as soon as possible.
More and updated information about COVID-19 is available from the CDC at www.cdc.gov and the Vermont Department of Health at https://www.healthvermont.gov/.
