As #Covid19 spreads around the US, it may seem like a good idea to go to a hospital at the first sign of a cough or fever. Don’t do it. Unless you went to a Covid-19 hot spot or interacted with someone who has it, the best thing you can do is stay home 1/ wired.trib.al/roI04LL
The number one strategy hospitals are relying on to deal with the #pandemic isn’t face masks or isolation wards: It’s asking people to stay home. An influx of people with mild or no symptoms will take resources away from patients who need them 2/
Two of those at-risk resources are face masks and #Covid19 test kits. A global face mask shortage could be looming and Covid-19 test kits are alarmingly sparse in the US. Many hospitals are just trying to conserve the tests they have 3/
If you do feel sick, be realistic about what a hospital can provide. They can evaluate and test people with severe symptoms, but they still can’t analyze tests on site. There’s no vaccine for #COVID19 and no medicine specifically designed to treat it 4/
For people with milder symptoms, there isn’t much a hospital can do to help. As with mild influenza, patients don’t need special care, just lots of rest and fluids. It’s also important to remember: Most people who get #Covid19 are going to be fine 5/
If you want to consult a doctor, see if your health care provider offers remote care or telemedicine portals. That way you can stay in your home while getting sound medical advice from professionals 6/
Most people probably don’t need a #Covid19 test, but they do need to stay away from other people. Just like with the flu, the basics still apply: Don’t cough on people, wash your hands, and if you’re mildly ill, do not go to a hospital 7/ wired.trib.al/roI04LL
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