Thread by @YourlocalIDdoc

What do I do if I’m COVID positive? The @WADeptHealthPIO has a great handout on what to do (pictures attached). Highlights (a thread): (1/9)

FIRST, do NOT panic, most people (approx 80%) will have no or mild symptoms. Now let’s talk some specifics on how to keep yourself and others safe in this situation:
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1. Your health - each person is very different, so contacting your personal health provider for specific recommendations is important! Things to watch out for: cough, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, fever, diarrhea, fatigue/body aches, signs of stroke.
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2. At home care - drink plenty of fluids. Get rest, but make sure you don’t become completely sedentary. It’s important to still move around and take deep breaths so your body doesn’t weaken and your lungs stay expanded.
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3. Exposing others - stay home and isolate yourself for at least 10 days AFTER your first positive test even if you have no symptoms. If your symptoms persist, you will have to isolate longer (at least 72 hours after the resolution of symptoms).... (5/9)

...Anyone who you may have exposed will need to be tested. Ensure contact-tracing is done and that exposed people are notified that they should be tested and isolated unless a negative test result is received.
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4. People You live with - if they test negative, then try to separate as much as possible within the home. Meaning, use separate bathrooms from uninflected people and do not go into the kitchen/participate in food prep for uninfected people.....(7/9)

....Sleep apart from an uninfected spouse or partner. Wipe down door handles and other common surfaces. Wear a face mask when in the same room as uninfected people at home. It may not be comfortable, but it’s the best way to protect the people you love most.
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Bottom line: COVID is here. Wear a mask/face shield to protect our community.

Thank you,
Your Local Infectious Disease Doctor
#YourLocalIDDoc

#ProtectingtheHeartland
#HealthyIowa #COVID19 #Iowa #StoptheSpread #StayHome #PublicHealth #MedEd #IDtwitter #RuralHealth #Rural (9/9)