Dear Manet Patient:
We understand that you may have questions and concerns about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. We want you to know that Manet’s highest priority is the health and safety of our patients, families, staff and guests. We are proud to serve as a health care resource for our community and our expert staff is at the ready to meet the needs of our patients. Given the concern over the spread of the respiratory disease COVID-19, we offer the following information for you and your family.
What Manet is doing to prepare for Coronavirus COVID-19
If you or a family member have reason to be at the health center for an appointment, we want to assure you that we are taking all precautions to keep you safe. Our staff is well-trained in managing respiratory illness, and cleanliness and sanitation is a top priority across our five sites.
How to reduce the risk of getting sick
For most people currently, the risk of contracting COVID-19 continues to be low. Influenza (the flu) continues to be widespread. The symptoms of both illnesses can be similar – fever, cough and difficulty breathing.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help prevent the spread of both illnesses. The best way to prevent infections is to avoid exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially when out in public
- Avoid contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Consider a flu shot—it is not too late to be vaccinated.
- Click here for more information about how to protect yourself and your family
The CDC does not recommend the general public wear a mask to prevent COVID-19. Stocking up on masks could create a shortage for health care facilities, making it more difficult to safely care for patients.
What to do if you are sick
When a new virus is circulating in the community, it understandably causes anxiety. Know that most people infected with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms and recover. Even with COVID-19 having been detected locally, most people with cold and flu symptoms (including fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat and cough) do not need to see their doctor or need to be tested for COVID-19.
Rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications for symptom control are usually all that is needed. To prevent the spread of respiratory illness, follow the CDC’s recommendations for what to do if you are sick.
If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for guidance.
Travel recommendations
As the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to grow throughout the world, travel restrictions are changing rapidly. We recommend you continue to check the latest information on travel risk through the Centers for Disease Control and U.S. State Department websites. We are asking all patients who call the health center for appointments about their recent travel history.
Finally, we want you to know that we are committed to serving in ways that protect you AND provide the best possible care. We are in constant communication with federal, state and local health officials to update our response and plan to serve you and our community.
Respectfully,
Cynthia Sierra, MA, Chief Executive Officer and Lily Yung, MD, Chief Medical Officer