Advice on caring for someone who has COVID-19
If a loved one tests positive for the respiratory disease known as COVID-19, Upstate pediatric infectious disease specialist Jana Shaw, MD, recommends isolating that person to minimize any contact with housemates. She says adequate fluid and rest may be helpful in providing some relief, but there is no treatment for this disease, which is caused by the novel coronavirus. If a person's condition worsens and he or she develops trouble breathing, Shaw advises calling that person's primary care provider.
Note: If you are running a fever along with a cough or shortness of breath and are concerned about a possible coronavirus infection, contact your primary care doctor. If do not have a primary care doctor or are uninsured, call the Upstate COVID-19 hotline at 315-464-3979, and someone will tell you whether you should be tested. The number will be staffed from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. For questions about the disease, call the New York State Department of Health Coronavirus Hotline at 888-364-3065. Click here for COVID-19 information from Upstate.
