Your Health District is committed to making sure our patients and community have the information and resources needed to stay safe in regards to the COVID-19 virus. It is important to rely on fact-based information from organizations like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for best practices and recommendations, and the Arizona Department of Health Services for the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Arizona.
COVID-19 is part of a large family of viruses called coronaviruses, some of which cause respiratory illness in people. Signs and symptoms are similar to the common cold or the flu and can include:
- runny nose
- cough
- sore throat
- fever
- shortness of breath
- a general feeling of being unwell
The (CDC) believes that the risk of contracting the virus is currently low for most people. Those at higher risk of illness from COVID-19 are:
- Older adults
- People with serious health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes
The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community is by taking proactive and preventative measures. To avoid exposure and help contain the spread of COVID-19 (and other respiratory illnesses, including the flu), the CDC has issued the following recommendations:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are frequently touched.