With all of the news constantly coming at us concerning the novel coronavirus, it's important to not only be aware, but also preventative in your actions.
COVID-19 can infect anyone. But it's mainly older adults, 60 and up, who are the most at risk to get seriously sick.
CNN's Health Team took information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and spoke to two geriatricians, Dr. Carla Perissinotto and Dr. Samir Sinha, about what people aged 60 and up specifically need to know.
First of all, you should know the symptoms. Coronavirus symptoms include fever, dry cough and difficulty breathing.
What you should do to take precautions:
- Cancel non-essential doctor’s appointments
- Schedule 'telehealth' sessions for appointments you can’t miss
- Designate an emergency contact
- Wash your hand frequently
- Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
If you know someone in a nursing home:
- Don't panic, most long-term care facilities have pandemic plans
- Call facility staff for information on their plan
- If you’re sick, do not visit a nursing home
- If you’re visiting a nursing home in an outbreak area, get screened before entering
- Figure out an alternative mode of communication if a nursing home bans visitors
Think you're sick? Do this:
- Call your doctor before going in
- Don’t use public transportation
- Stay home as much as possible
- Call a local coronavirus hotline for more help
Also, it's important to note: DO NOT go on a cruise right now! It's just not worth it, no matter who you are.
Download the information sheet HERE, and check out the full list of prevention tips on CNN Health.