Coronavirus: helpful guidelines

DON’T PANIC

If you’re a New Yorker who has not traveled recently and you feel ill, it’s far more likely that you have the influenza virus (the flu) than the coronavirus.

The two viruses share similar symptoms:

•	Fever
•	Cough
•	Shortness of breath
•	Fatigue

Presently, symptoms appear between two and 14 days after contact with the virus.

However, there’s currently no vaccine or treatment for the coronavirus.

But, the good news is that just as it is possible to recover from the flu, it’s possible to recover from the coronavirus with symptom management, right at home.

Those with more serious cases have recovered after hospitalization.*

 

STAY SAFE FROM CORONAVIRUS

Wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day and keep your home and work environment clean.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve.

Avoid touching your face. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Get your flu shot: it’s never too late! Indeed, tell your friends and family to get it too!

And stay home if you are feeling sick. Call your doctor and let them know your symptoms and travel history.

If you have a fever and respiratory symptoms, it’s always a good idea to wear a mask to protect the people around you. Especially if you come into contact with infants and children, the elderly, or people with compromised immune systems.

As with all respiratory viruses, make sure you cough into your elbow and not into your hands or open spaces so you prevent the spread of illness.

Finally, don’t travel to high-risk areas. At the moment, this means China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea.

MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR CORONAVIRUS

The Floating Hospital does not currently test patients for the coronavirus.

Testing is available in New York State, but only through Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) in Albany.

Confirmatory tests still go to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Even if you have some of the symptoms, the requirements for testing are specific.

•	Fever or respiratory symptoms and contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient
•	Fever and respiratory symptoms requiring hospitalization and travel within 14 days of symptoms
•	Fever and severe respiratory illness, requiring hospitalization without other cause

If your provider has reason to believe that you were infected with the coronavirus, they will ask you detailed information about your travel history, and possibly refer you to the DOHMH for testing.

Click either of the buttons below to get a downloadable fact sheet about coronavirus, and the most effective way to wash your hands to prevent the spread of infection.

Each has information in English and Spanish.

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Starting in 1866, The Floating Hospital is the largest provider of healthcare to homeless families. We provide free and secure transport to and from over 300 shelters and domestic violence safe houses throughout New York City.

The Floating Hospital operates a main clinic in Long Island City. Additionally, we have satellite clinics at shelters, public housing, and assessment centers throughout the city.

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*The coronavirus is only fatal in a tiny percentage of cases.