Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading very easily and sustainably between people. In general, the more closely a person interacts with others and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.

It 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. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about how this virus spreads.

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby, or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.

Mild to severe symptoms of:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Avoid close contact (6 feet) with people who are sick, even inside your home. Put physical distance between yourself and other people outside your home.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

If you are around others and do not have on your cloth face covering, use tissues to cover coughs and sneezes, and then discard tissues in the trash.

Clean/disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Be alert for symptoms of COVID-19.

If you have a fever, cough or other symptoms, you might have COVID-19. Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider.

Keep track of your symptoms. If you have an emergency warning sign (including trouble breathing), seek emergency medical care immediately.

Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure:

• New onset cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• New loss of taste or smell

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
• Ohio Department of Health
• Indiana State Department of Health
• Kentucky Department for Public Health
• Ohio Coronavirus Hotline: 1-833-4ASKODH (1-833-427-5634)