Coronavirus (COVID19)

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused by a virus that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has spread throughout the world. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild (or no symptoms) to severe illness.

Stop the Spread of Germs

Help prevent the spread of respiratory diseased like COVID-19.  A mandate to wear masks in public was put in place while in public.  Masks help you and persons you are around by containing the germs that spread this disease.  Practicing social distancing is also recommended.

Persons over age 60 as well as persons with chronic health conditions at any age are at high risk for serious illness including death with the Coronavirus and should consider continuing to stay home and stay safe. 

Guide for Decisions on Getting Out

The UW-Extension has created a wonderful resource to help you make decisions about how to safely go out in the community and re-engage with family and friends.

Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers

Recursos Para Adultos Mayores y sus Cuidadores

Hay tres videos que habla sobre el Coronavirus. Cada video tiene diferentes temas. Primero video, habla de la razones porque es importante a quedarse en casa. El segundo video, habla sobre como comenzó el virus y como las personas puede a transmitir el virus y las precauciones que se deben tomar. El ultimo video, habla sobre ciertos programas comunitarios que ayudan a la población de ancianos, y otros programas de nutrientes que están disponibles. 

Watch for Symptoms

Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including,

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Not everyone with COVID-19 has all of these symptoms.  For many, symptoms are mild, with no fever.  It is important to know that you can still spread (transmit) the virus to others even if you have mild or no symptoms.  Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

Information from Department of Health Services Wisconsin. https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/symptoms.htm

Stop the Spread of Germs

Help prevent the spread of all respiratory diseases.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.  Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  Especially before eating, after using the bathroom, sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Avoid sharing items, i.e.: dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Strongly recommend using a cloth face covering/mask while in public.

CDC Recommendations for High Risk Groups

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has identified older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung, kidney disease or diabetes are at higher risk for a more serious COVID-19 illness. The CDC recommends that if you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, you should:

• Assure you have adequate supplies and food should you need to self-quarantine for 2 weeks or longer.
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others. Social Distancing of 6 feet or better is recommended.
• When you go out in public, wear a mask, stay away from others who are sick, limit close contact, and wash your hands often.
• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to reduce further your risk of being exposed.

Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC)