What Are The Symptoms of COVID-19

Close-up shot of doctor wearing protective surgical mask ready to use infrared forehead thermometer (thermometer gun) to check body temperature for virus symptoms

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By Jessica VanEgeren

July 3, 2020

Signs of the virus and how to access online link to see if you should seek medical assistance

Anyone exhibiting signs of COVID-19 is now encouraged to contact their physician and ask to be tested for the highly contagious virus.

This was not always the case but with an increase in testing kits and a growing lab capacity in Wisconsin to process 11,000 tests a day, residents are now being told to seek a test even if symptoms are not severe. 

A cough and shortness of breath are the two main signs of the virus. Two of the following symptoms also indicate a presence of the virus: fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and a recent loss of taste or smell.

Some may experience fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea. It is important to note that symptoms are mild for many, with no fever. People can spread the disease even if they have mild or no symptoms. 

Signs that you should seek medical help more emergently include: trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in your chest, new confusion and blush lips or face. 

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. This is why it is important to practice 6 feet of social distancing and to wear masks in public. 

COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets that are released when a sick (infected) person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. These droplets can remain in the air and on surfaces for an extended period of time. When people breathe in (inhale) the droplets, or touch surfaces that have been contaminated and then touch their mouth, face, or eyes, the virus can make them sick.

If you think you may have the virus, click this link. A “self checker” box will appear on the right side of the screen. Click on the “self check” button and then answer a series of questions to determine if you should seek medical assistance. 

COVID-19: How to Protect Yourself

The purpose of wearing a cloth mask is to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It is important to note there is no vaccine to prevent the contraction of the virus. Until there is, the best way to prevent contracting the virus is to avoid being exposed.

Here are a few tips: 

  • Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet between you and other people,
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow so as not to spread droplets 
  • Wear a cloth mask whenever you leave your house

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CATEGORIES: Coronavirus

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