Coronavirus - COVID19 FAQs

Common questions healthy people may be asking:

1)    How will I know if I have an infection with Corona Virus, Covid-19?

a.   Since most healthy people will be able to stay home when they have symptoms of cough and fever along with sore throat and fatigue, testing is not necessary in most cases.  Just as you would for the flu and other viruses, it is important to isolate yourself as much as possible at home to avoid spreading the virus.  Most people should be feeling better in 7 to 10 days and may return to regular activities when free of fever for at least THREE full days provided your cough is also decreased.

2)    When should I call my primary care provider?

a.   If you are over 60 year old, it is best to notify your primary care provider when you are sick at home.  If you are getting sicker and having difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, it is very important to CALL your Doctor or other health care Provider.    CALL 911 if your condition is rapidly getting worse. 

b.   If you are generally healthy under age 60, certainly call your primary care provider if you are having difficulty breathing or not responding to fever control.

3)    How can I protect myself from Corona Virus infection?

a.   At the present time we are all advised to maintain “Social Distancing” to avoid contact with others who may carry the Corona Virus.  It is important to remain 6 feet distance from others and practice “Healthy Hygiene” such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, coughing into your elbow, using hand sanitizer when outside the home and frequent cleaning of counter tops and tables at home.

4)     Are masks necessary?

a.   Masks are not necessary for most people but masks are helpful when caring for a sick person at home and masks are especially important for emergency medical personnel (EMTs) and hospital personnel.

5)    When will all this get better?

a.    In the next 2 to 3 weeks, about mid-April, we should have more specific information about the next steps to take.  Meanwhile, “Social Distancing” and “Healthy Hygiene” are the keys to limiting this epidemic.  Specific drug therapy is being tested for Corona Virus and vaccine trials are beginning but a safe and effective vaccine is at least a year away. 

Submitted by Louis Fazen, MD, MPH for Sturbridge Board of Health, 3-18-2020