A: COVID-19, or coronavirus disease 2019, is respiratory disease caused by one of the seven coronaviruses known to infect humans. It was first identified in humans in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019. The virus that causes COVID-19 is called SARS-CoV-2.

A: There is community spread across Ohio and the United States, meaning you can pick up the virus that causes COVID-19 from people you know or from out in your community from unknown sources, much like you catch the flu.

A: Symptoms, which generally appear two to 14 days after exposure, include cough or shortness of breath/difficulty breathing. You also may have COVID-19 if you have two or more of these symptoms fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. These symptoms range from mild to severe; however, some people with COVID-19 have no symptoms. Older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and people with compromised immune systems are more likely to become more severely ill.

A: COVID-19 is believed to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) with one another and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

A: Get vaccinated to prevent severe illness from COVID-19. If you are not vaccinated, use the personal prevention protection methods like a face mask and social distancing. Clean high-touch areas — counters, tables, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, nightstands — often, using household cleaning spray or wipes according to label directions.

A: If you are not vaccinated you should continue to wear a mask and social distance when in public.

A: Yes. Going outside to a park or for exercise can be a fun and safe activity.

A: If you are not vaccinated, wear a face covering, wash your hands often, try not to touch your face, and frequently disinfect your work area with disinfecting cleanser. Don’t share equipment used near the face and don’t congregate in breakrooms or other areas. Talk to your supervisor about accommodations in the work place if needed.

A: Call a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms listed above. Older people, people with underlying medical conditions, and people with compromised immune symptoms should contact a healthcare provider early. If you experience severe symptoms (e.g., persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face, or other concerning symptoms), contact a healthcare provider or emergency department and seek care immediately.

A: You should make all medically necessary visits as recommended by your healthcare provider.

A: Testing supplies are being expanded across the state. This will allow providers to immediately and aggressively act to treat these at-risk patients and to take safety precautions to prevent spread of the disease. Your healthcare provider can advise whether you should be tested or you can find a testing site through The Health Collaborative. 

A: Continue to donate blood if you are well and able. Blood centers have been provided recommendations that will keep donors and staff safe, such as spacing donor chairs 6 feet apart, thoroughly adhering to environmental cleaning practices, and encouraging donors to make donation appointments ahead of time.

A: Currently there is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19. However, the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from person-to-person. Food workers who are sick should stay home until they no longer pose a risk of infecting others. Anyone handling, preparing, or serving food should always follow safe food handling procedures, such as washing hands and surfaces often. It is also critical to follow the four key steps of food safety — clean, separate, cook, and chill — to prevent foodborne illness.

Scammers are trying to monopolize on the fear and uncertainty that COVID-19 has brought to so many. Watch out for claims of products or medications that can prevent or treat COVID-19 or anyone asking for your personal or banking information. If you suspect any unfair or deceptive sales practices, contact the office of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost at www.OhioProtects.org or 1-800-282-0515. See more on this issue here.