COVID-19: What You Need To Know

Coronavirus is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. It causes mild to moderate respiratory illnesses and can be spread through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose. The virus affects everyone differently, but some common symptoms appear between 2-14 days of exposure. These symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

How Is It Transmitted & How To Social Distance

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. That is why it is important to take the proper precautions to protect yourself and others in your home from getting and spreading it. By washing your hands and social distancing, you can help stop the spread. It is recommended to stay away from mass gatherings and stay at least 6 feet from one another as you could breathe in the respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. By covering your nose and mouth with a mask when you are in public, you can also help stop the spread.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Multiple vaccines have been rolling out across the country including those from Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. While there is much skepticism over the vaccine, it is proven to be effective and safe. Social media has given those who are skeptical a platform to spread fear. However, many of these myths are not true. These vaccines help our immune systems recognize the virus to help fight it off. They will keep you from getting seriously ill if you should be infected by COVID-19. It's important to stay well-hydrated before and after your vaccine as well as continue to social distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands often. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, you should consider seeing one of our heart doctors.

Contact Our Family & Pediatric Doctors

If you or someone in your family are having common COVID-19 symptoms in the Olean, NY area, rely on the family and pediatric doctors at Olean Medical Group. We can give you further information on the steps you should take including getting tested, quarantining, and more. We can also give you important vaccination information.

Our family and pediatric doctors are still seeing patients during this time as your health is important to keep up with. We are following New York State and local public health guidelines and are taking special measures to physically distance inside our waiting rooms. Patients and employees are screened daily. We are committed to ensuring that our patients receive appropriate medical care, especially during this time. For more information or to schedule service with one of our family, pediatric, or heart doctors, contact Olean Medical Group today.