As news about the Coronavirus, also named COVID-19, is updated – we realize that there are many unknowns and this has become a stressful and concerning time for many of our patients. We are looking to keep our patients well informed and as healthy as possible. We are actively monitoring this situation and will continue to update you with new information that may impact your healthcare at West Linn Family Health Center and our community. Below are answers to some common questions from our patients:
I’m not feeling well. Should I come into the clinic for an appointment?
Preventing the spread of illness when you are actively symptomatic is extremely important. If you are sick with a cough and fever, please know our clinic is not able to test patients for COVID-19. You should call and speak with our Primary care provider or Clackamas County Health Department for further advice on how to receive care and testing without exposing others. Keep yourself isolated.
What are the most common symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Elderly and those with underlying medical concerns such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. On March 2, The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the global mortality Irate for COVID-19 is 3.4%. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
How do people catch COVID-19?
COVID-19 can spread by small droplets from the mouth or nose when a person with the virus coughs or exhales. The incubation period (the time between “catching” the virus and beginning to have symptoms) is between 1-14 days and is most commonly around 5 days.
It is unclear how long COVID-19 can live on surfaces, but some studies suggest that it can persist for a few hours or up to several days. If you think a surface may be infected, clean it with a simple disinfectant to kill the virus and protect yourself and others. West Linn Family Health Center will be vigilant about maintaining attention to the hygiene of our office to prevent spread of illness.
What are the best ways to prevent transmission?
• Prioritize hand-washing more frequently. Use soap and water for twenty seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when hand-washing is not possible
• Maintain a distance of 3-6 feet when possible from individuals that are displaying symptoms
• Cover your cough
• Sneeze with a tissue and discard tissue immediately, then wash your hands
• Sneeze into your bent elbow
• Please stay home if you are sick!
Please see links below for information and updates as they become available