Protecting Yourself
While there is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, Mercyhealth urges everyone to remain vigilant but not panic. 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:
- 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 your hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- 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. This helps prevent spreading the disease to others. Facemasks are crucial for health workers and people who care for someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Most patients with COVID-19 symptoms are at low risk for having the disease. If you have concerns, Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now is a safe, convenient way to get expert medical advice from the comfort of your home. With Virtual Visit Now, you help reduce the risk of spreading germs to patients and staff at the urgent care clinic. Mercyhealth cannot diagnose COVID-19 through Virtual Visit Now, but your remote care provider can screen you, answer your questions, and recommend what you should do next.
