I want to thank Nurse Fife for putting this information together for our Pirate family. We will continue to give updates as we receive them. 


COVID-19  (Coronavirus) Information  3/18/20

 

As you know this virus is in Cleburne County.  This is not an isolated case and there have been many with exposure.  Given the rapid spread of the illness due to it being so contagious you will likely know someone who has the virus or at least the symptoms.

Symptoms:

            Fever

            Cough

            Shortness of Breath

            Sore Throat

If you have a Fever and one of the above symptoms then you meet screening criteria--This means that you may be tested for Coronavirus--1st you will be tested for Flu and Strep. 

 

If you have symptoms and are concerned call your healthcare provider. The clinics are currently performing screening in the parking lots while you are in your car in an effort to try to reduce the spread.

 

If you do not have a healthcare provider:

  • call the UAMS hotline 1-800-632-4502 or go to https://uamshealth.com/healthnow/
  • Baptist Health- Heber Springs is offering drive through screenings. Must call ahead 501-887-3279 to schedule an appointment.

 

Those at higher risk for serious illness include older adults and people with underlying chronic medical conditions. People who are considered high risk should contact their health care provider early, even if symptoms are mild.

 

If you have symptoms then you are asked to Self Quarantine.  This means stay at home with minimal or no contact from anyone else.  This means frequent cleaning of your house and staying in your own room. 

Home care

  1. Stay at home, the only reason an ill person should leave the house is for medical attention
  2. If possible open a window to allow ventilation (let the germs out)
  3. Distance from other family member (don’t sleep in the same bed)
  4. Do not have visitors in the house
  5. Have one person be the caretaker (better if they don’t have any health issues)
  6. Increase hand washing for all members of the family, after coughing or sneezing, before and after eating, after using the bathroom.  (at least 20 seconds with soap and water)
  7. Don’t share blankets or towels with the ill person
  8. Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently, including the toilet.
Home Treatments
  • In general, follow these three basic rules:
    •  Keep warm and rest as much as possible. If you feel like resting, you should
    • Take plenty of fluids. Food is not as important since appetite will return when you are well.
    • For fever, take Tylenol or Motrin in normal doses (see label on the bottle). Tylenol may be preferred to use.  Tylenol is the same as Acetaminophen.    Motrin is the same as Ibuprofen
  • If cough is present: Humidification and drinking lots of fluids helps to moisten and loosen up sticky mucus. Non-prescription drugs designed to suppress cough, such as Delysm, Robitussin, are occasionally helpful. If you use an inhaler, you might need to use it more often.
  • If throat is sore: Gargle with warm water (1/2 tsp salt in 1/2 glass of water). Try cold packs to the outside of your throat to help ease the pain of swallowing.  Humidification of the air you breathe (use vaporizer, pans of evaporating water, or steaming tub or shower) and lots of fluids help.
  • If temperature is elevated: Fluids are doubly important. Fever medicine (such as Tylenol or Motrin) should control temperature. Persistent temperature elevation of 103-104 degrees is a danger sign.
  • If nausea and/or diarrhea are present: Eat only clear liquids, soups, or juices as tolerated. Remember fluids are important to prevent dehydration.

 

If emergency warning signs develop, seek medical attention immediately. These signs include: difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, coughing up blood, Fever of 103-104 in spite of Tylenol/Ibuprofen use, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face.

I am asking everyone to please stay home as much as possible.  Take care of elderly friends and make sure they have what they need without having to go out.  Wash your hands frequently.  Please take care of yourselves and each other!

Sincerely

Nurse Delite

delite.fife@concordschools.org

 

 

References: WHO, ADH, CDC, Local Clinicians, The Everett Clnic, Part of Optum