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A new type of coronavirus has been making people sick. This new (novel) type causes COVID-19. We're still learning about COVID-19 because it is new, but it is not "just another cold." Symptoms range from mild to severe respiratory illness.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
How it spreads:
A person can get COVID-19 from close contact with another person (within roughly 6 feet or 2 meters away) or when a person with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible to get COVID-19 by touching a surface that has the virus on it then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
People with COVID-19 are the most likely to pass the virus on to another person when they are at their sickest.
Prevention:
There is no vaccine currently. To protect yourself and others, follow everyday preventive actions including:
-
Avoid close contact with people, especially those who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, blowing your nose, coughing, and before eating. (If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.)
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects such as door knobs.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- People should wear a homemade mask or face covering if they go out in public to places where social distancing is difficult. Please reserve medical masks for health care workers.
Testing Testing is available to symptomatic people from their doctor or other health care provider. Essential employees without symptoms may also be tested. Call your primary care physician, an urgent care facility, or the health department at 517-887-4517 if you think you need to be tested. You may also use the testing site finder.
Information from the State of Michigan