This is an update from our AOA Orthopedic Specialists office regarding updates and operations in the wake of the Coronavirus, or COVID-19. We value the health and well-being of our staff, patients, and families and in a commitment to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, we want to educate people of the proper precautions to take during these changing times.
We take an especially keen interest in ensuring we are doing all we can to help manage its spread and mitigate risk in the community. Not only will we be encouraging our patients and others to follow some simple guidelines from the CDC, we find it important to elucidate what COVID-19 is.
FOR DALLAS & IRVING LOCATIONS:
“Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said that people visiting essential businesses, working in essential businesses or those riding public transportation will be required to have a piece of cloth covering their mouth and nose.”
“Because an infected person can transmit the COVID-19 virus to others before showing any symptoms, the covering of a person’s nose and mouth is necessary to help slow the spread of the virus. Effective at 11:59 p.m. on April 17, 2020, to the greatest extent possible all persons over the age of two (2) shall wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandanna or handkerchief, when patronizing an Essential Business or using public transportation,” the order said.
What is COVID-19?
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.
Can People in the U.S. Get COVID-19?
Yes. COVID-19 is spreading from person to person in parts of the United States. Risk of infection with COVID-19 is higher for people who are close contacts of someone known to have COVID-19, for example healthcare workers, or household members. Other people at higher risk for infection are those who live in or have recently been in an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19.
As it has been brought to our attention, there have been reported cases of U.S. citizens contracting COVID-19, the first case being reported on January 21, 2020. The current count of cases of COVID-19 in the United States is currently available on CDC’s web page for more information.
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source but is now spreading from person to person. The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Common Guidelines from the CDC
We are sharing this information in the sake of transparency, so you are aware and can help reduce the spread of infection. The best ways to reduce the risk of getting this or any viral respiratory infection include:
Cleaning your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick
Stay home if you’re sick
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care
- If you are sick, you should wear a face mask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office
- If you are not sick, you do not need to wear a face mask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask)
Cover coughs and sneezes
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow
- Throw used tissue in the trash
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
Clean and disinfect
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, counter tops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them using detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection
What To Do if You Suspect You Are Sick
It is extremely important to bring awareness to the public of how to protect yourself and to know the symptoms of COVID-19. Patients with COVID-19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you’re experiencing signs of sickness, schedule a medical appointment and call ahead before visiting your doctor. Remember, it is important to remain calm and follow the recommended steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to others.
Questions for Us
We hope these steps we are taking bring you comfort that we can continue helping you reach your healthcare needs. If you have an upcoming appointment scheduled at AOA, we are happy to reschedule your appointment to better suit your needs. Please contact us at (817) 375-5200 for any questions or concerns during this time.
Thank you for your loyalty and continued support.
