COVID-19 Coronavirus FAQs
March 12, 2020
I don’t have symptoms, but how can I protect myself from COVID-19?
You can take the same steps to protect yourself from COVID-19 as you would to protect yourself against colds and the flu:
• 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.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces you touch.
• Practice “social distancing.”
Check 1199SEIU Funds Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dunn’s web page for the latest preventive information as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, www.CDC.gov.
What is social distancing?
Social distancing means keeping several feet of space between yourself and others whenever possible. Maintaining a distance from others will reduce the risk of an infected individual communicating the disease to you. In addition to practicing social distancing on an individual basis, it’s a good idea to avoid gatherings involving close contact with others.
How can I protect myself from the COVID-19 virus when taking public transportation?
If you have to take public transportation, try to avoid touching grab bars, and if you must touch them, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands before touching your face. You should also try to distance yourself from others as much as possible.
I think I may have been exposed to COVID-19: What should I do?
If you think you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, avoid traveling on public transportation and waiting in crowded waiting rooms and reach out to your healthcare provider. National Benefit Fund members can call Teladoc at 800-TELADOC (835-2362) or visit www.Teladoc.com, and they will help you get the care you need.
What if I need to get the test?
The Teladoc doctor will connect you with the city or state health department for diagnostic testing, tell you about any quarantine requirements you may need to follow and notify your primary care physician.
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