What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a type of virus called a coronavirus. This novel (new) coronavirus was first discovered in China. On January 31, 2020, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex M. Azar II declared a public health emergency for the United States.
How is it spread?
While COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning how it spreads we are sure that the primary way it spreads is person-to-person contact. However, it may also be transmitted with contact of infected surfaces or objects.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and fatigue.
What should a patient receiving dialysis know?
As a dialysis patient, it is important for you to take precautionary action to protect yourself from getting COVID-19. Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water, and wash them often. Below are additional resources you may find helpful in protecting yourself from COVID-19.
Online Resources for Patients on Dialysis