COVID-19 – A Message from Connie Phillips Insurance
News about a deadly virus that stared in Wuhan, China in December, now called 2019 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. As the number of cases rises, it’s understandable if you’re wondering how likely it is that you or a loved one will become ill. Everyone is quite likely, also wondering how to prevent this virus from making its way to you or your love ones. At Connie Phillips Insurance we’re sharing information to help explain what COVID-19 is all about, how to protect yourself and what to do if you think you might be infected.
WHAT IS COVID-19?
Coronavirus is a type of virus that causes respiratory illness – an infection of the airways and lungs. COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus. It’s part of the same family of coronaviruses that includes the common cold. Symptoms may appear as early as 2 and 14 days after infection. Symptoms can be mild to severe. They include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE SYMPTONS?
Call your doctor as soon as possible if you develop a fever, have a cough, or have difficulty breathing. Let them know if you’ve been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area where the virus has spread. Don’t panic, remain aware so that you don’t spread the virus to your close ones.
WILL MY INSURANCE COVER MY TREATMENT?
Most insurance plans will cover the care you get if you’re diagnosed as having COVID-19, based on your plan’s benefits. Some of the out-of-pocket expenses your plan requires have been waived by the Federal Government. For specific information about your plan contact your insurance provider.
MARYLAND RECIDENTS
Governor Hogan has been proactive and had declared a State of Emergency on March 12, 2020. Since then, Governor Hogan has had many news updates. For the latest press releases, visit: https://governor.maryland.gov/category/press-releases/
He has officially authorized and directed the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to expedite coordination among all state and local agencies. This accelerates coordination with our state and local health departments and emergency management teams.
While the Governor declared a State of Emergency, he also encouraged citizens to remain calm and to go to school and work as they normally do.
IT’S ALL ABOUT PREVENTION!
There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19, however, everyday preventive measures can reduce the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. There are simple things you can do to help keep yourself and others healthy.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Please be cautious and protect your family and loved ones. We are all in this together and care about you. Let’s Keep America Healthy!
Connie Phillips