Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates

Overview

The coronavirus is a new virus that has made people sick in some parts of the world. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), most people who have gotten sick with this virus has had a mild case. Symptoms include fever, dry, itchy cough, and trouble breathing. At HSCSN, we would like to make sure you have information on how to access our services. Our services include care coordination, pharmacy, and clinical management.

At HSCSN, we are making sure you receive:

• Medical care
• Your providers
• Your medicines through your local pharmacy
• Your medical supplies and equipment

If you think you have COVID-19, please call your doctor and tell your HSCSN Care Manager before visiting a healthcare facility.

Prevent Catching and Spreading Coronavirus

Prevent Getting Sick

Prevent the Spread of Germs

COVID-19 Online Resources

• Information for pregnant women
• Information for people with asthma
• Information for parents
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Updates
• DC Government Updates
• Maryland Department of Health Updates
• World Health Organization Updates
• Just for Kids: A Comic Exploring The New Coronavirus
• LabCorp COVID-19 Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

How can HSCSN help me?
At HSCSN, we are making sure you receive:

• Medical care
• Your providers
• Your medicines through your local pharmacy
• Your medical supplies and equipment

We will also closely follow updates from the DC Department of Health, World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

What are Coronaviruses?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the common cold to more serious diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The coronavirus is a new virus that has caused an outbreak of breathing problems that began in China. It spreads between people in close contact. Since December 2019, COVID-19 has spread to other countries, including the United States.

What are the symptoms?
We are still learning more about the symptoms of COIVD-19. A lot of symptoms linked to coronaviruses are similar to the flu. They include dry, itchy cough, fever, and trouble breathing. The coronaviruses SARS and MERS cause more severe symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath that progress to pneumonia and can be fatal.

How does the coronavirus (COVID-19) spread? 
Currently, it is thought that COVID-19 spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

When will someone get sick if they are exposed?
Symptoms show anywhere from 2-14 days.

How can I protect myself?
You can protect yourself by avoiding coming into contact with the virus. HSCSN recommends practicing good hygiene. To prevent this virus from spreading please:

• Wash your hands a lot with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If it helps, sing the ABC’s.
• Avoid being around people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces.
• Use hand sanitizer in-between hand washing.
• Stay at home when you feel sick.

Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?
No, there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19.

Should I wear a facemask to prevent COVID-19?
If you do not have any symptoms, you should not wear a facemask. Facemasks should only be used if your doctor tells you to wear one.

What should I do if I have traveled to China, or know someone who has?
You may have been exposed to coronavirus (COVID-19). Check for any symptoms. If you are not having symptoms, at this time, it is thought that you are not at risk of being infected with coronavirus (COVID-19).

Should I travel out of the United States?
Please review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Coronavirus Webpage for the latest on travel and important health information.

Citations

• “COVID-19 FAQs.” coronavirus.dc.gov
• “Coronavirus Data.” coronavirus.dc.gov