Page 24 - March April 2020 TPA

How it Spreads + How to Prevent it: As cases reached the United States, the U.S.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began publishing information
about the virus detailing what symptoms to look for, travel precautions, what to
do if you become sick, and how the virus spreads. The symptoms of COVID-19 can
range from mild to severe, with the worst cases requiring hospitalization, stays in the
intensive care unit, and mechanical ventilation. The CDC says that 80% of cases
are mild, and the more severe cases typically impact the elderly and those with
weakened immune systems. Symptoms include:
Fever

Cough

Shortness of Breath

Diarrhea (some cases)

Nausea/Vomiting (some cases)

The virus spreads in a few different ways. People can be exposed through prolonged
close person-to-person contact (usually within six feet or less) from an infected
person’s respiratory droplets. When a sick person sneezes or coughs, these droplets
can enter the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) of people close to them.
COVID-19 can also spread through contact with infected surfaces. Touching an
infected surface such as a doorknob or phone then touching the nose, mouth, or
eyes can easily spread the virus. The CDC has also made it clear that the virus can
spread before symptoms start, an especially troubling piece of information that has
undoubtedly contributed to the swift spread of COVID-19. The incubation period, or
the time between exposure and when symptoms start is anywhere from 2-14 days.
People may have the virus and be contagious before they show symptoms, and a
small percentage of people may have the virus and never show symptoms at all.
People are most contagious, however, at the height of their illness and when they
are sickest.
There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19, however, there are things people can do
to decrease their chances of contracting the virus.

Don’t touch eyes, nose, or mouth

Stay at home if you are sick
Avoid close contact with sick people

Clean surfaces regularly
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough
and sneeze using your elbow or a tissue

Wash hands frequently with soap and warm
water for at least 20 seconds

March/April 2020 www.texaspoliceassociation.com • (512) 458-3140 17