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 a Brulin disinfectant that meets 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
