What is COVID-19?
COVID 19 is an infectious and respiratory disease caused by coronavirus that can be spread from person to person. COVID 19 is short for “Coronavirus Disease 2019.”
The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (about 6 feet) and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- People are most contagious when they are the sickest. But those who don’t have a lot of symptoms can still pass the virus on to others.
- There are currently several vaccines for COVID 19. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Everyone 16 years of age and older is now eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccination.
What are COVID 19’s symptoms?
The most common symptoms are very similar to other viruses: fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Common symptoms of COVID 19 are changing as more is learned about the disease. For the most up to date symptom list, visit the CDC’s website.
Who is at high risk for COVID 19?
Everyone is at risk of getting COVID 19, but some people are at a higher risk of serious illness.
Generally speaking, adults aged 65 and older and people of any age who have underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for serious illness from COVID 19. The most up-to-date way to assess your risk is to complete this CDC Screening Tool.
What Can You Do?
Lather Up
Washing your hands is the best way to help you stay healthy. Use soap to lather up your hands by rubbing them together for 20 second. Get the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- No soap or water? Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Apply the gel to the palm of one hand. Rub your hands together over all of your hands’ surfaces and fingers until your hands are dry.
- In addition to washing your hands regularly, it’s also a good idea to avoid touching your face and eyes.
Mask Up
Wearing a cloth mask can protect yourself and others from germs and help slow the spread.
Buy a cloth face mask. If you can’t find one, improvise. Create a mask from a tightly woven cotton garment, like sheets or a bandana; T shirt fabric will work in a pinch. Ensure your mask has multiple layers of fabric. Click here to view the CDC’s full instructions.
Physical Distance
The virus spreads from person to person. Physical distancing means putting space between yourself and people outside your home to prevent the transmission of the disease. Avoid physical contact with other people.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from people when outside your house. This includes friends or loved ones. Same goes for other people’s pets.
- Do not invite guests to your home.
- Avoid groups and crowds.
- In places where physical distancing might be difficult, like the grocery store or pharmacy, do your best to stay 6 feet away from others. Wear a cloth face covering.
- Physical distancing does not mean you shouldn’t talk to others. Make sure you stay connected with your friends, family, and neighbors. Call, video chat, or stay connected using social media.
Get Vaccinated
Everyone 16 years of age and older is now eligible to get a vaccine. Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can. Widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. After you’ve been fully vaccinated, you can start to do some things that you had to stop doing because of the pandemic. Here are some key things to know.
What are some local resources?
Center for Family and Child Enrichment, Inc. (CFCE)
1825 NW 167th Street, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Every Wednesday from 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Every Friday from 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Appointments are required and can be arranged by calling 305-474-1800.
**Moderna and Pfizer- BioNTech**
www.cfcewellness.org
Jessie Trice Community Health System
20612 NW 27th Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Tuesday, 9am-3pm Pfizer
Wednesday, 9am-3pm Pfizer
Thursday, 9am-3pm Moderna
Friday, 9am-3pm Pfizer
Saturday 9am-1pm
www.jtchs.org