SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) FAQ
What is it?
SARS-CoV-2 (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.
How is it transmitted?
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) is spread by close person-to-person contact from droplets from a cough or sneeze, which can get into your mouth, nose, or lungs. Close contact is defined as being within approximately 6 feet of another person.
What precautions can be taken?
Follow the standard precautions for avoiding respiratory viruses:
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick. If you are sick, stay home.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) with greater than 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.
• Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
What are the symptoms?
Patients with COVID-19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore Throat
• New loss of taste or smell
What is the treatment?
There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. Treatment is directed at relieving symptoms, drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. If symptoms persist, contact your healthcare provider.
How can BHC help?
Use one of our disinfectants that meet EPA guidelines for emerging viral pathogens, with demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) on hard non-porous surfaces for daily facility cleaning and disinfection. Make sure your infection prevention and control program includes cleaning and disinfection on all “high touch” surfaces daily, including:
• Toilets
• Phones
• Doorknobs
• Bathroom fixtures
• Counters
• Tabletops
• Keyboards
