By Erica Thomas, managing editor
TRUSSVILLE — The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) says national and international organizations are working on models to estimate the number of people who will get sick by coronavirus. However, for people who never experience symptoms, the number could be much higher than estimated.
That is why social distancing is so important. But what if you or someone in your family does get infected? Are you prepared?
The ADPH recommends every household has an adequate supply of prescription and nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand. This includes pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, tissues, hand sanitizer and a thermometer. Also, it is important to have a two-week supply of food and water at home.
Talk with your family about how they would be cared for if they got sick and what would be needed in their home.
Most people will have mild effects from the virus, but it can cause severe illness and pneumonia in others. People diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus reported symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Symptoms include:
- Fever (100.4 or greater)
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Symptoms of COVID-19 appear within two to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you have symptoms, the ADPH and the CDC recommends you stay at home. Contact your healthcare provider by phone. You may be referred to a testing site near you.
The COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard (mobile version) provides a map of testing sites.