A: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to

person. CDC has information on COVID-19 symptoms and caring for yourself and others. COVID-19 is a
new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

This virus is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person
coughs or sneezes. This occurs between people who are in close contact with one another (within about
6 feet). Droplets from coughing or sneezing can land in your nose or mouth, or on nearby surfaces. The
virus can also be spread by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your
mouth, nose, or possibly your eyes. Avoid unnecessary contact (e.g. shaking hands) and perform hand
hygiene before and after patient contact and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces to
prevent spread.

We continue to get new information about symptoms and signs of COVID-19 infection. The most
common symptoms are fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, and congestion, but we are also
seeing reports of diarrhea and loss of smell. Less than 10% of patients have more severe symptoms such
as shortness of breath, chest pain, new confusion, or inability to arouse.

COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through close contact from person-to-person. Some
people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. We are still learning about how the
virus spreads and the severity of illness it causes.

Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

 Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
 Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
 These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be
inhaled into the lungs.
 COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.

The virus spreads easily between people

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious,
like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is
sustained, which means it goes from person-to-person without stopping.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading very easily and sustainably between people.
Information from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic suggests that this virus is spreading more
efficiently than influenza, but not as efficiently as measles, which is highly contagious. In
general, the more closely a person interacts with others and the longer that interaction, the
higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.

The virus may be spread in other ways

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has
the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not
thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about how this virus
spreads.

Spread between animals and people

 At this time, the risk of COVID-19 spreading from animals to people is considered to be
low. Learn about COVID-19 and pets and other animals.
 It appears that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals in
some situations. CDC is aware of a small number of pets worldwide, including cats and
dogs, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close
contact with people with COVID-19. Learn what you should do if you have pets.

Protect yourself and others

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. You can take steps to
slow the spread.

 Maintain good social distance (about 6 feet). This is very important in preventing the
spread of COVID-19.
 Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use a
hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
 Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
 Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when around others.
Coronavirus COVID-19 Update
June 25, 2020
Dear friends,
 
All of us at insightCuba hope that you and your families are safe and well.

Like many of you, we continue to put off our dreams of traveling, a little longer. As of June 15, 2020,
Cuban airports remain closed to international arrivals. However, the Cuban governement has
announced a phased plan to allow tourists back to the island, however, no dates have been announced. 
To keep everyone safe and to ensure safe passage for all of our guests, we've suspended tours through
July 31. We are looking forward to resuming operations August 1, once all safety and wellness protocols
have been established. 

We've been in constant contact with our partners and friends in Cuba. Like us, they too are sheltering at
home with their loved ones, their livelihoods temporarily on hold. We’ve shared the many good wishes
of our past and future travelers, and true to the Cuban spirit, and despite many hardships there, they
are sincerely concerned with their friends in the U.S. and wish to convey their thoughts of wellbeing and
safety, with you. 

Cuba, has implemented many of the same precautionary measures implemented around the world to
minimize the spread of COVID-19 including social distancing, restricting travel to the island until further
notice, and closing schools. Additionally, Cuba has deployed its national health services to local
communities around the country with reports of medical volunteers going door to door to check
temperatures and provide guidelines for residents to stay healthy. By all accounts, they have minimized
the impact of COVID-19 on the population. 

And now we wait for the day when we can return to visiting our friends and families, and to exploring
the world once more.
 
At the end of the day, I believe this crisis will bring us together and make us stronger as a global
community. Because we're all in this together.

Stay safe and healthy,

Tom Popper
President, insightCuba
 

 
Tour Updates 
 
For the health, safety and safe passage of our guests,  insightCuba has suspended tours through July 31,
2020.
 
All tours scheduled to depart August 1, 2020 onward are currently operating as scheduled. 
If you're interested in reservation your space on a tour later in 2020 or through 2021, please visit
our Cuba tours page for a large selection of tours and departure dates. If you are interesting in creating
your own personalized tour for two or more people, please REQUEST A PROPOSAL or call us at 800-450-
2822. 
 
Please know that your health and well-being are our highest priority. Should circumstances change, and
you are registered on one of our tours, we will notify you as soon as possible with any updates.
 

Travel Insurance 
 
If you haven’t already, we recommend that guests purchase travel insurance. InsightCuba has selected
Allianz Global Assistance as our preferred travel insurance partner to provide you with the option of
purchasing a plan that can include protection for trip cancellation, interruption, travel delay, baggage
and more. Every year over 35 million people trust Allianz Global Assistance to protect their travel,
events, tuition and more. Multilingual support is available 24/7 to help you select the plan that best suits
your needs. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. If you’re not completely satisfied, you have at least
10 days, depending on your state of residence to request a refund, provided you haven’t started your
trip or initiated a claim. Premiums are non-refundable after this period. 

 
For a quote, click here or call 866-884-3556 to speak with an Allianz Global Assistance representative. Be
sure to reference ACCAM # F209844 for a quote.  
 
Additional insurance information can be found on the Allianz Coronavirus Update page. 
 

Protect yourself and others 

 

 The single most effective thing you can do to prevent the spread of disease is to wash your
hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, then dry thoroughly with a clean
towel, paper towel or hand dryer. You may also clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rubs
or sanitizers. 
 Bring hand sanitzer with you to Cuba. It's not a commonly found item.
 Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.  
 Avoid touching your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth. 
 When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose, either with a tissue or your elbow.
Discard the tissue immediately, and then wash your hands with soap and water or use an
alcohol-based hand rub. 
  Health authorities are not recommending that the general public should wear facemasks.
According to WHO and other medical experts, there is little evidence that using masks protects
healthy persons from contracting viruses. However, if you do exhibit any symptoms, you should
wear a facemask to help limit transmission to others. We recommend you bring some masks
with you, as they may not be available in destination. If you do wear a face mask, ensure it
covers your nose and mouth. Single-use masks should be discarded after use in a closed trash
bin and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after you handle the mask. 
 If you experience symptoms such as coughing, fever or difficulty breathing, contact your doctor
or medical facility immediately and share your recent travel information so they may determine
if you should be tested for COVID 19. 

Everything You Should Know About the 2019 Coronavirus and

COVID-19
 Symptoms
 Causes
 Risk factors
 Diagnosis
 Treatment
 Complications
 Prevention
 Masks
 Coronavirus types
 Outlook

What is the 2019 coronavirus?

In early 2020, a new virus began generating headlines all over the world because of the
unprecedented speed of its transmission.

Its origins have been traced to a food market in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. From there,
it’s reached countries as distant as the United States and the Philippines.

The virus (officially named SARS-CoV-2) has been responsible for millions of infections
globally, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths. The United States is the country most
affected.

The disease caused by an infection with SARS-CoV-2 is called COVID-19, which stands for
coronavirus disease 2019.
In spite of the global panic in the news about this virus, you’re unlikely to contract SARS-CoV-2
unless you’ve been in contact with someone who has a SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Let’s bust some myths.

Read on to learn:

 how this coronavirus is transmitted

 how it’s similar to and different from other coronaviruses
 how to prevent transmitting it to others if you suspect you’ve contracted this virus

HEALTHLINE’S CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Stay informed with our live updates about the current COVID-19 outbreak.

Also, visit our coronavirus hub for more information on how to prepare, advice on prevention
and treatment, and expert recommendations.

What are the symptoms?

Doctors are learning new things about this virus every day. So far, we know that COVID-19 may
not initially cause any symptoms for some people.

You may carry the virus for 2 days or up to 2 weeksTrusted Source before you notice symptoms.

Some common symptoms that have been specifically linked to COVID-19 include:

 shortness of breath
 a cough that gets more severe over time
 a low-grade fever that gradually increases in temperature
 fatigue

Less common symptoms include:

 chills
 repeated shaking with chills
 sore throat
 headache
 muscle aches and pains
 loss of taste
 loss of smell

These symptoms may become more severe in some people. Call emergency medical services if
you or someone you care for have any of the following symptoms:

 trouble breathing
  blue lips or face
 persistent pain or pressure in the chest
 confusion
 excessive drowsiness

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source is still investigating the
full list of symptoms.

COVID-19 versus the flu

We’re still learning about whether the 2019 coronavirus is more or less deadly than the seasonal
flu.

This is difficult to determine because the number of total cases, including mild cases in people
who don’t seek treatment or get tested, is unknown.

However, early evidence suggests that this coronavirus causes more deaths than the seasonal flu.

An estimated 0.04 to 0.2 percentTrusted Source of people who developed the flu during the
2019–2020 flu season in the United States died as of April 4, 2020.

This is compared to about 6 percent of those with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United
States, according to the CDCTrusted Source.

Here are some common symptoms of the flu:

 cough
 runny or stuffy nose
 sneezing
 sore throat
 fever
 headache
 fatigue
 chills
 body aches

CORONAVIRUS UPDATES
Get updates on COVID-19 and helpful tips to stay healthy

Our daily update shares ways to protect yourself and your loved ones to ease uncertainty.

Your privacy is important to us

What causes coronaviruses?

Coronaviruses are zoonotic. This means they first develop in animals before being transmitted to
humans.

For the virus to be transmitted from animals to humans, a person has to come into close contact
with an animal that carries the infection.

Once the virus develops in people, coronaviruses can be transmitted from person to person
through respiratory droplets. This is a technical name for the wet stuff that moves through the air
when you cough, sneeze, or talk.

The viral material hangs out in these droplets and can be breathed into the respiratory tract (your
windpipe and lungs), where the virus can then lead to an infection.

It’s possible that you could acquire SARS-CoV-2 if you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes after
touching a surface or object that has the virus on it. However, this is not thought to be the main
way that the virus spreads

The 2019 coronavirus hasn’t been definitively linked to a specific animal.

Researchers believe that the virus may have been passed from bats to another animal — either
snakes or pangolins — and then transmitted to humans.

This transmission likely occurred in the open food market in Wuhan, China.

Who’s at increased risk?

You’re at high risk for contracting SARS-CoV-2 if you come into contact with someone who’s
carrying it, especially if you’ve been exposed to their saliva or been near them when they’ve
coughed, sneezed, or talked.

Without taking proper preventive measures, you’re also at high risk if you:

 live with someone who has contracted the virus

 are providing home care for someone who has contracted the virus
 have an intimate partner who has contracted the virus

Handwashing is key

Washing your hands and disinfecting surfaces can help decrease your risk for contracting this
and other viruses.

Older adults and people with certain health conditions have a higher risk for severe
complications if they contract the virus. These health conditions include:

 lung conditions, such as COPD and asthma

 certain heart conditions
  immune system conditions, such as HIV
 cancer that requires treatment
 severe obesity
 other health conditions, if not well-managed, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease

Pregnant women have a higher risk of complications from other viral infections, but it’s not yet
known if this is the case with COVID-19.

The CDCTrusted Source states that pregnant people seem to have the same risk of contracting
the virus as adults who aren’t pregnant. However, the CDC also notes that those who are
pregnant are at greater risk of getting sick from respiratory viruses compared to those who aren’t
pregnant.

Transmitting the virus from mother to child during pregnancy isn’t likely, but the newborn is
able to contract the virus after birth.

How are coronaviruses diagnosed?

COVID-19 can be diagnosed similarly to other conditions caused by viral infections: using a
blood, saliva, or tissue sample. However, most tests use a cotton swab to retrieve a sample from
the inside of your nostrils.

The CDC, some state health departments, and some commercial companies conduct tests. See
your state’s health department websiteTrusted Source to find out where testing is offered near
you.

On April 21, 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source approved the use of
the first COVID-19 home testing kit.

Using the cotton swab provided, people will be able to collect a nasal sample and mail it to a
designated laboratory for testing.

The emergency-use authorization specifies that the test kit is authorized for use by people whom
healthcare professionals have identified as having suspected COVID-19.

Talk to your doctor right away if you think you have COVID-19 or you notice symptoms.

Your doctor will advise you on whether you should:

 stay home and monitor your symptoms

 come into the doctor’s office to be evaluated
 go to the hospital for more urgent care

HEALTHLINE RESOURCES
Until you get through this, count on our support
In difficult times, you need to be able to turn to experts who understand and can help strengthen
your mental well-being. We’re here for you.

What treatments are available?

There’s currently no treatment specifically approved for COVID-19, and no cure for an
infection, although treatments and vaccines are currently under study.

Instead, treatment focuses on managing symptoms as the virus runs its course.

Seek medical help if you think you have COVID-19. Your doctor will recommend treatment for
any symptoms or complications that develop and let you know if you need to seek emergency
treatment.

Other coronaviruses like SARS and MERS are also treated by managing symptoms. In some
cases, experimental treatments have been tested to see how effective they are.

Examples of therapies used for these illnesses include:

 antiviral or retroviral medications

 breathing support, such as mechanical ventilation
 steroids to reduce lung swelling
 blood plasma transfusions

What are the possible complications from COVID-19?

The most serious complication of COVID-19 is a type of pneumonia that’s been called 2019
novel coronavirus-infected pneumonia (NCIP).

Results from a 2020 study of 138 people admitted into hospitals in Wuhan, China, with NCIP
found that 26 percent of those admitted had severe cases and needed to be treated in the intensive
care unit (ICU).

About 4.3 percent of the people who were admitted to the ICU died from this type of pneumonia.

It should be noted that people who were admitted to the ICU were on average older and had
more underlying health conditions than people who didn’t go to the ICU.

So far, NCIP is the only complication specifically linked to the 2019 coronavirus. Researchers
have seen the following complications in people who have developed COVID-19:

 acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

 irregular heart rate (arrhythmia)
 cardiovascular shock
 severe muscle pain (myalgia)
  fatigue
 heart damage or heart attack
 multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), also known as pediatric multisystem
inflammatory syndrome (PMIS)

How can you prevent coronaviruses?

The best way to prevent the transmission of infection is to avoid or limit contact with people who
are showing symptoms of COVID-19 or any respiratory infection.

The next best thing you can do is practice good hygiene and physical distancing to prevent
bacteria and viruses from being transmitted.

Prevention tips

 Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds at a time with warm water and soap. How
long is 20 seconds? About as long as it takes to sing your “ABCs.”
 Don’t touch your face, eyes, nose, or mouth when your hands are dirty.
 Don’t go out if you’re feeling sick or have any cold or flu symptoms.
 Stay at least 6 feetTrusted Source (2 meters) away from people.
 Cover your mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow whenever you sneeze or cough.
Throw away any tissues you use right away.
 Clean any objects you touch a lot. Use disinfectants on objects like phones, computers, and
doorknobs. Use soap and water for objects that you cook or eat with, like utensils and dishware.

Should you wear a mask?

If you’re out in a public setting where it’s difficult to follow physical distancing guidelines, the
CDCTrusted Source recommends that you wear a cloth face mask that covers your mouth and
nose.

When worn correctly, and by large percentages of the public, these masks can help to slow the
transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

That’s because they can block the respiratory droplets of people who may be asymptomatic or
people who have the virus but have gone undiagnosed.

Respiratory droplets get into the air when you:

 exhale
 talk
 cough
 sneeze

You can make your own mask using basic materials such as:
  a bandana
 a T-shirt
 cotton fabric

The CDC provides instructionsTrusted Source for making a mask with scissors or with a sewing
machine.

Cloth masks are preferred for the general public since other types of masks should be reserved
for healthcare workers.

It’s critical to keep the mask clean. Wash it after each time you use it. Avoid touching the front
of it with your hands. Also, try to avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes when you remove
it.

This prevents you from possibly transferring the virus from a mask to your hands and from your
hands to your face.

Keep in mind that wearing a mask isn’t a replacement for other preventive measures, such as
frequent handwashing and practicing physical distancing. All of them are important.

Certain people shouldn’t wear face masks, including:

 children under 2 years old

 people who have trouble breathing
 people who are unable to remove their own masks

What are the other types of coronaviruses?

A coronavirus gets its name from the way it looks under a microscope.

The word corona means “crown.”

When examined closely, the round virus has a “crown” of proteins called peplomers jutting out
from its center in every direction. These proteins help the virus identify whether it can infect its
host.

The condition known as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was also linked to a highly
infectious coronavirus back in the early 2000s. The SARS virus has since been contained.

COVID-19 vs. SARS

This isn’t the first time a coronavirus has made news. The 2003 SARS outbreak was also caused
by a coronavirus.

As with the 2019 virus, the SARS virus was first found in animals before it was transmitted to
humans.
The SARS virus is thought to have come from batsTrusted Source and was transferred to another
animal and then to humans.

Once transmitted to humans, the SARS virus began spreading quickly among people.

What makes the new coronavirus so newsworthy is that a treatment or cure hasn’t yet been
developed to help prevent its rapid transmission from person to person.

SARS has been successfully contained.

What’s the outlook?

First and foremost, don’t panic. You don’t need to be quarantined unless you suspect you have
contracted the virus or have a confirmed test result.

Following simple handwashing and physical distancing guidelines are the best ways to help
protect yourself from being exposed to the virus.

The 2019 coronavirus probably seems scary when you read the news about new deaths,
quarantines, and travel bans.

Stay calm and follow your doctor’s instructions if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 so you can
recover and help prevent it from being transmitted.

In Vitro Diagnostic Tests: COVID-19 Tests, Including Antibody Tests

In vitro diagnostics are tests performed on samples taken from the human body, such as swabs of
mucus from inside the nose or back of the throat or blood taken from a finger prick or drawn by a
phlebotomist. In vitro diagnostics can detect diseases or other conditions and can be used to
monitor a person's overall health to help cure, treat, or prevent diseases. Patients, as well as their
physicians, depend on the FDA to ensure that the in vitro diagnostics they use to make medical
decisions are accurate, reliable, and clinically meaningful.

On February 4, 2020, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) determined that there
is a public health emergency and that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of
emergency use of in vitro diagnostics for detection and/or diagnosis of the novel coronavirus
(2019-nCoV). Rapid detection of COVID-19 cases in the United States requires wide availability
of diagnostic testing to control the emergence of this rapidly spreading, severe illness.

 Read frequently asked questions about:

o Diagnostic tests for COVID-19
o Home-use Blood Glucose Meters Utilized Within Hospitals During the COVID-19
Pandemic
 Read the FDA Fact sheet - Antibody Test Oversight and Use for Covid-19
 See the list of diagnostic tests available through Emergency Use Authorizations
 EUA Authorized Serology Test Performance
 Important Information on the Use of Serological (Antibody) Tests for COVID-19 - Letter to Health
Care Providers
 Transport Media Safety Risk - Use Compatible Transport Media with SARS-CoV-2 Tests that Use
Bleach - Letter to Clinical Laboratory Staff and Health Care Providers
 Certain COVID-19 Serology/Antibody Tests Should Not Be Used - Letter to Clinical Laboratory
Staff and Health Care Providers

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Respirators, Surgical Masks, Gowns, Gloves, and More

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to protective clothing, helmets, gloves, face shields,
goggles, surgical masks, respirators, and other equipment designed to protect the wearer from
injury or help prevent wearer exposure to infection or illness.
PPE is commonly used in health care settings such as hospitals, doctor's offices, and clinical
labs, as well as veterinary hospitals, food production facilities, and food service settings. When
used properly, PPE acts as a barrier between infectious materials (such as viral and bacterial
contaminants) and your skin, mouth, nose, or eyes (mucous membranes). The barrier provided
by the PPE has the potential to block transmission of contaminants from blood, body fluids, or
respiratory secretions when used properly.

PPE may also protect patients who are at high risk for contracting infections through a surgical
procedure or who have a medical condition, such as an immunodeficiency, from being exposed
to substances or potentially infectious material brought in by visitors and health care workers.

When used properly and with other infection control practices such as hand-washing, using
alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and covering coughs and sneezes, PPE minimizes the spread of
infection from one person to another. Effective use of PPE includes properly removing and
disposing of contaminated PPE to prevent exposing both the wearer and other people to
infection.

Information about PPE and COVID-19:

 Questions about Personal Protective Equipment

 Frequently Asked Questions on Shortages of Surgical Masks and Gowns
 Frequently Asked Questions on 3D Printing of Medical Devices, Accessories, Components, and
Parts During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The FDA recognizes that the need for PPE, such as surgical masks, surgical and isolation gowns,
surgical suits, and medical gloves may outpace the supply available to health care organizations
during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the FDA is recommending these conservation
strategies for use by health care organizations and personnel:

 Medical Glove Conservation Strategies - Letter to Health Care Providers

 Surgical Mask and Gown Conservation Strategies - Letter to Health Care Providers
 Certain Filtering Facepiece Respirators from China May Not Provide Adequate Respiratory
Protection - Letter to Health Care Providers
 Risk of Misinterpreting Hydrogen Peroxide Indicator Colors for Vapor Sterilization -  Letter to
Health Care Providers

The FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorizations for respirators and Emergency Use
Authorizations for systems that can decontaminate certain types of N95 respirators for reuse by
health care personnel in a health care setting.

 See the list of Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) related to personal protective equipment .
 Use the Correct Cycle and Compatible N95 Respirators When Decontaminating Respirators with
STERRAD Sterilization Systems - Letter to Health Care Providers
Ventilators

A continuous ventilator is a device intended to mechanically control or assist patient breathing

by delivering a predetermined percentage of oxygen in the breathing gas.

The FDA recognizes that the need for ventilators, ventilator accessories, and other respiratory
devices may outpace the supply available to health care facilities during the COVID-19
pandemic. As a result, the FDA is recommending the following conservation strategies for use
by health care organizations and personnel:

 Ventilator Supply Mitigation Strategies - Letter to Health Care Providers

 See the Emergency Use Authorization related to ventilators, anesthesia gas machines modified
for use as ventilators, and positive pressure breathing devices modified for use as ventilators
 Read Frequently Asked Questions on Ventilators
FDA Emergency Response Activities Related to Medical Devices

For the most recent information on the FDA's emergency response activities related to COVID-
19, refer to the FDA's Press Announcements, including the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update:
Daily Roundup releases.

Another excellent resource is the weekly FDA COVID-19 Response At-A-Glance Summary,
which includes updates on Medical Products and Equipment as well as Guidance Document.
What is novel coronavirus?

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease is a new type of coronavirus first identified in Wuhan,
China. The name of this disease is abbreviated as COVID-19. It is part of the family of viruses
that cause the common cold and result in a range of flu-like symptoms.  

How does COVID-19 spread?

This virus is spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected
person coughs or sneezes. This occurs between people who are in close contact with one another
(within about 6 feet). Droplets from coughing or sneezing can land in your nose or mouth, or on
nearby surfaces. The virus can also be spread by touching a surface or object that has the virus
on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or possibly your eyes. Avoid unnecessary contact (e.g.
shaking hands) and perform hand hygiene before and after patient contact and after touching
potentially contaminated surfaces to prevent spread.

How can I prevent the spread of infection?

 Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
 Alcohol-based hand rubs are a quick and effective way to sanitize your hands Avoid close
contact with sick people
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
 Cover your cough or sneeze with disposable tissue
 Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

What does "flatten the curve" mean?

“Flatten the curve” refers to the rate of COVID-19 infection over time. Implementing social
distancing, stay-at-home orders and other measures can help “flatten the curve” by reducing the
number of people who are infected within a specific time period. A slower infection rate also
lowers the demand for health care services at any one time and spreads this demand over a
longer period of time. The goal is for the need for healthcare services never to exceed the
capacity of our healthcare resources.
#FlattenTheCurveGA

 Get the Facts to Help Flatten the Curve

Can someone spread the virus without being sick?

People are thought to be most contagious when they have the most symptoms, such as cough. Some
spread might be possible before people show symptoms – there have been reports of this occurring, but
this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads from adults. On the other hand, children may
have no or mild symptoms and spread the virus within families, which may account of much of the
“asymptomatic transmission” that has been observed. Adults may be contagious with only mild
symptoms, which is why it is so important that we monitor ourselves closely.

Is COVID-19 in the air?

Based on current data, this virus does not stay suspended in air like Tuberculosis (TB) from
coughing or sneezing (see above for more on how is spread).

Are some patients at more risk of getting sick from COVID-19?

Although most people who are infected by COVID-19 develop mild illness, some patients may
be at increased risk for severe illness. Cancer patients who are under active cancer treatment are
generally going to be at higher risk for complications of infection with COVID-19, especially
patients who have had a recent bone marrow or stem cell transplant and have severely
compromised immune systems. Also, older adults and those with medical conditions such as
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic medical
problems are at higher risk for complications.

What advice should be given to patients who are at increased risk of getting sick from COVID-19?

The best method of protection is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Patients should stay out of
public areas, avoid social gatherings, and avoid close contact with other people. The virus can
travel up to 6 feet in respiratory droplets from another person’s sneeze or cough, so they should
keep 6 six feet between themselves and others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) recommends other everyday preventive measures such as vigorous hand-washing. We
should counsel our patients to follow all of these recommended precautions. The National
Cancer Institute (NCI) offers more information specific to cancer patients and COVID-19.

Is there a vaccine I can get to prevent contracting COVID-19, or treatment if I do contract it?
There is no vaccine at present, but Emory researchers are joining worldwide efforts at developing one as
rapidly as possible. Emory University also is taking part in a National Institutes of Health sponsored
global clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of therapeutic agents in hospitalized adult patients
diagnosed with COVID-19, learn more here.

Symptoms
 

What symptoms are associated with COVID-19?

We continue to get new information about symptoms and signs of COVID-19 infection. The
most common symptoms are fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, and congestion, but
we are also seeing reports of diarrhea and loss of smell. Less than 10% of patients have more
severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, new confusion, or inability to arouse.

What do I do if I have symptoms or have been exposed?

If you think you have COVID-19, the best thing to do is stay home and isolate yourself. Always
call your health care provider before going to the office. Avoid going to an emergency room
unless you have any or all of these symptoms:

 Shortness of breath
 Dizziness
 Confusion
 Persistent high fevers
 Worsening symptoms after you initially started to feel better

Your health care provider will determine if you need to be tested. Testing is most important if
you have symptoms of a fever or respiratory infection and one of the following:　

 Are sick enough to need to be in a hospital.

 Have risk factors for a more severe infection such as heart, lung, or kidney disease, diabetes or a
compromised immune system.
  Work or live in a communal setting (e.g. a hospital, daycare, college dorm, or nursing home).

I have mild symptoms, what should I do?

 Most people who have COVID-19 infection are mildly ill and improve with supportive care like
resting and drinking plenty of fluids. Mild symptoms include low-grade fever, cough, and
congestion similar to what you might have with the common cold.

 We recommend that you continue to isolate yourself while you have symptoms. You should stay
home and should not go to work, spend time in public areas, or take public transportation, use a
ride-sharing service or take a taxi.

 You should try to stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom from anyone else in your
house if that is possible. Continue to wash your hands frequently, and cover your cough or
sneeze.

 We recommend people stay isolated for at least a week after the onset of their symptoms, or
for three days after their fever is gone and symptoms have significantly-improved, whichever
one of those is longer.

What should I do if my symptoms are getting worse?

 If you do develop worsening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, you should call ahead to
your doctor's office. They can help direct you to either their office or an emergency department
for further evaluation. If you need to go to the doctor or ER, you should wear a mask. If you do
not have a mask at home, please request one when you arrive.

 If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room. Be
sure to let them know of your concern for COVID-19 (coronavirus).

What should I do if I believe I have been exposed to someone with COVID-19?

If you are symptomatic, stay home, self-isolate and call the COVID information line at 404-71-
COVID (404-712-6843) for guidance. If you are asymptomatic, you may continue to work and
should self-monitor for symptoms.

How much does the test cost?

The federal government has committed to making testing free. You will not be receiving a bill from
Emory Healthcare for the test. If you’re diagnosed with COVID-19, additional services, including hospital
admission (if applicable), will be covered according to your insurance plan details.

When will I get my test results?

Emory is testing patients for COVID-19 according to the CDC and public health criteria. If you were
referred to Emory to get tested, Emory’s COVID clinic team will call you with test results 5-7 business
days after your test. Please do not call in to inquire about your results; only the COVID clinic team has
the information to give you and they will call you as soon as they can to deliver your test results. 
Can I get a doctor’s note about self-isolation to share with my employer?
Yes, if your provider advises you to self-isolate based on CDC guidelines, you may request a note.

See the following links at the CDC for further info on self-isolation guidance:

 STEPS TO HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 IF YOU ARE SICK

 HOME ISOLATION FOR PERSONS WITH COVID-19