HCO Behavioral Health Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Coronavirus (COVID-19)
HCO Behavioral Health Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Coronavirus (COVID-19)
We know there has been a lot of activity in the news about the coronavirus (COVID-19), its symptoms, and what you should do to prevent the spread of the disease.
At HCO Behavioral Health, the safety and well-being of our clients and staff is our top priority. To that end, we are actively monitoring the situation and following the policies and procedures we already have in place, as well as guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to continue to support the safety of our community.
As this situation evolves, we will continue to work under the direction of public health officials and local experts to provide accurate information to our team and community members, implementing necessary proactive measures.
For more information about COVID-19 and our preventive efforts, please see below.
What is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?
According to the CDC, Coronavirus disease 2019 (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.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:
Fever
Shortness of breath / trouble breathing
Cough
Some may also experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea.
Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through person to person contact (within about 6 feet) and can also spread through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are transmitted when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. It may also 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 eyes.
People who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus.
What can I do to protect myself and my family?
There are simple everyday preventive actions the CDC recommends to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
What preventive actions is HCO Behavioral Health taking?
HCO Behavioral Health is closely following CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of communicable diseases, including implementing enhanced cleaning and hygiene practices throughout our facilities, and limiting access for anyone who is showing symptoms of respiratory illness.
We are continuing to follow best practices throughout our organization and are committed to providing the best possible care in a safe environment.
Are any of the HCO Behavioral Health facilities closed?
YES, at this time all appointments are being conducted via Telehealth.
What should I do if I’m feeling sick?
If you experience symptoms of COVID-19, it’s important that you do everything you can to reduce exposure to the general public. Please call your primary healthcare provider before going to their office to discuss your symptoms and any necessary precautions
If you have an upcoming appointment at Compass Health, please contact your treatment team before arriving.