Coronavirus In Howard County: What To Do If You Have Symptoms

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Health experts say not every person needs to be tested for the new coronavirus. Many people will experience mild symptoms including fever, fatigue and a dry cough, and can recover at home without being tested.

According to the Maryland Department of Public Health, as of April 1, there are 1,985 confirmed cases; 17,233 negative test results; 31 deaths; 522 hospitalizations; and 69 released for isolation. If someone believes they may have new coronavirus, here is what the Howard County Department of Health says to do:

What should I do if I think I am sick with COVID-19?
There is no specific treatment available for COVID-19. However, if you have traveled or been in close contact with someone who has traveled to affected areas and now have a fever and cough or shortness of breath, you should:

• Seek medical care. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room and tell them about your recent travel or contact and your symptoms.
• Stay home except for seeking medical care and avoid contact with others.

What should I do if I have flu-like symptoms?

• Mildly symptomatic patients (like fever or mild cough) who are otherwise healthy can self-quarantine, monitoring temperature and symptoms and check in with your medical provider as needed.
• Individuals who have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should seek care immediately. Always call ahead to your medical provider or emergency department.
• Older patients and individuals who have underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their physician early in the course of even mild illness. In most situations, those patients will need to be evaluated in an emergency department. Always call ahead to your medical provider or emergency department.

I don't have symptoms, but was recently in contact with someone who was tested positive. What should I do?
At this time, if you are not having any symptoms (asymptomatic), you will not be tested, due to limited resources. Please stay home and self-quarantine for 14 days.

How can people be tested for COVID-19?
People who suspect they have the virus should contact their health care provider who will determine if the patient has signs and symptoms compatible with coronavirus and will decide to refer the patient for lab testing.

For updates on the coronavirus in Maryland, get Patch news alerts.

How can I be more prepared for COVID-19?

• Plan ahead in the case you have to stay home.
• Have an adequate supply of nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, which could include pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluid with electrolytes and vitamins
• Check your regular prescription drugs to make sure you have an adequate supply; refill your prescriptions if needed
• Have a thermometer, tissues and hand sanitizer
• Have a two-week supply of food available at home

What can I do to protect myself and others?
There are currently no vaccines available to protect against COVID-19 infection. To help prevent illness from this virus you should:

• Wash hands often with soap and warm water or use alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or into a tissue.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• If possible, stay home. If you have to go out, practice social distancing (stay 3 to 6 feet away from others).
• If you are an older adult, or are someone with pre-existing medical condition (lung or heart disease or diabetes), stay home.

The Howard County Department of Health has a health line for people with questions relating to the new coronavirus that is staffed seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 410-313-6284.

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