Viral outbreaks aren’t new. However, they aren’t something we should take lightly when they appear. Especially with the rise of the Coronavirus, also known as “COVID-19.” Even if you’re at low risk for the virus, washing your hands stops the spread of germs to help keep others safe. Let’s do our part to help each other stay healthy, not only now, but in the future.
Wash Your Hands!
We all know how to wash our hands. But some of us may skimp on the process (even if we don’t admit it!) Let’s get back to basics and go over how to properly wash your hands.
- Begin by wetting your hands before you apply soap. Lather your hands together, reaching under nails and between fingers.
- Once the soap has reached everywhere, then it’s time to scrub.
- Rub your hands together for at LEAST 20 seconds. Be sure to get in between your fingers, under your nails, and the backs of your hands.
- Then, rinse your hands when you’re done with clean water and dry them off with a clean towel.
If you struggle with making sure you spend enough time hand washing, there are a few tricks you can try. The best tip we’ve heard is singing 20 seconds of your favorite song. For example, go ahead and sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
KEEP IN MIND: Hand sanitizer is great in short-term situations. But, it doesn’t get rid of all of the germs. Even after using hand sanitizer, try to avoid touching your face until you can get to a sink with hand-washing soap.
What Are The Symptoms?
There’s a lot of miscommunication going on about COVID-19. Many people are unsure of how the virus appears or how long it lasts. But when in doubt, it’s time to turn to the Center for Disease Control (CDC)!
According to the CDC, COVID-19 spreads in two major ways. The first is through coughing, and the second is through being within six feet of one another. When we cough, many of us tend to cover our mouths with our hands. And so when we touch another person or surfaces that someone else touches, this spreads the germs. Coughing into the crook of your arm is a much better way to avoid spreading the virus.
But as far as symptoms go, there are three big indications to look out for.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
While there are a few other possible symptoms, these are the biggest indicators. According to the CDC, these symptoms may not appear until two to 14 days after exposure. Therefore, even if you’re not showing signs, there’s a chance you could be a carrier. That’s more than enough of a reason to wash your hands.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have The Virus?
Check-In Online
Lake Urgent Care’s first priority during the COVID-19 pandemic is to keep our community and our team members safe. To do that, we’re asking anyone with non-immediate urgent care needs to check-in online, and utilize our paperless registration. Text us upon arrival, stay in your car, and we’ll let you know when your room is ready. It’s easy, it’s fast, and it’s safe!
Virtual Visit
With the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to stay safe. That’s why Lake Urgent Care/Lake After Hours is encouraging patients that don’t feel well to stay home and schedule a virtual visit. With Virtual Visits, you can be examined by a highly trained clinician from anywhere using your home computer, laptop or mobile device. To get started, visit our Locations page, click the “Virtual Visit” button, and then select “Virtual Visit” as your reason for visiting.
Call One of Our Locations
Not tech savvy? No problem! If you or a loved one feel you are showing symptoms (Cough, Fever, Shortness of Breath) consistent with the Coronavirus (COVID-19), please call one of our clinics prior to coming to the location. You can find the phone number for each clinic listed on the Locations page.
Visit Your Lake Urgent Care Today!
If you think you may have COVID-19, call one of our locations, check-in online or schedule a Virtual Visit! Even in difficult times, Lake Urgent Care/Lake After Hours is working hard to help you “Feel Better. Faster!”
We also understand there’s panic right now. But, while you shouldn’t panic, there’s no reason to ignore the issue at hand. Most importantly, make sure to practice safe health measures to keep the virus at bay. It’s for everyone’s safety.