Public health experts encourage people experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 — fever, cough and shortness of breath — to call their health care provider before seeking care in person or going to the emergency room or urgent care.  Calling your health care provider first helps avoid spreading germs to others. Telehealth, including virtual visits and video check-ins, are a way to deter the virus from spreading in health care settings — especially to high-risk individuals such as older adults and people with underlying health conditions.  More testing facilities are becoming available but do require an order from your doctor to get the test. 

To prevent the spread of this illness or other illnesses, including the flu:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water,
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze,
• Stay home if you are sick or have any flu symptoms
• Call your doctor if you think you're ill.
• Contact your health care provider before visiting the emergency room, urgent care, or your doctor’s office

Call 911 if you develop warning signs of a serious health threat including:

• difficulty breathing
• persistent pain in the chest
• confusion
• blueness of lips and/or face
  

 Visit The Centers for Disease Control website for information on the Coronavirus.  Jay Butler, Deputy Director for Infectious Diseases at CDC, describes preventative measures to help protect older adults from COVID-19 in this  video.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjcoN9Aek24

Also check out National Foundation of Infectious Diseases common questions and answers about COVID-19 for Older Adults and People with Chronic Health Conditions