Frequently Asked Questions

According to the CDC, A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

A diagnosis with coronavirus 229E, NL63, OC43, or HKU1 is not the same as a COVID-19 diagnosis. Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with common coronavirus diagnosis.

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

According to the CDC, early information out of China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:

• Older adults
• People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Lung disease
  

The best course of action to combat the COVID-19 virus is to follow the CDC’s recommendations for prevention, which can be found here. This includes:

• Washing Hands.  It’s important to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Clean and Disinfect Frequently: Clean your working area, and other frequently touched objects and surfaces with cleaning sprays or wipes.
• Avoid Touching Eyes, Nose and Mouth: If you can, please avoid touching your face as much as possible.
• Stay Home if You Are Feeling Sick: If you are feeling ill, take similar precautions that you would with any other sickness and please stay home.

If our crews are affected, we will take the necessary steps and recommendations from the CDC to see if any of our crews are high or low risk of exposure and monitor them as needed.