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What You Need to Know

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If You Are Sick

Know the difference: Cold vs. Flu vs. COVID-19

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SAFETY MEASURES TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF COVID-19

Tips for older adults (especially those at-risk) to help reduce exposure 

No need to panic! Sharpen your defenses by practicing some simple precautions:

TAKE PRECAUTIONS:

  • Cancel non-essential appointments

  • Schedule telehealth sessions for appointments you can’t miss

  • Designate an emergency contact

  • Wash your hands frequently (scrub for 20 seconds with soap and water)

  • Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available

TRAVEL (CDC advisories):

  • Avoid non-essential plane travel

  • Avoid cruise ship vacations

DAILY ACTIVITIES:

  • Avoid public places where crowds may gather and poorly ventilated buildings where the risk of transmission is higher

    If you need to isolate yourself:

    Remain in contact with family or friends, updating them on your condition

  • Keep several feet of distance from people

  • Wash your hands with soap after going in public
    *Exercise caution. If temporarily opting out of your daily activities would reduce your anxiety, staying home might be in your best interest.

STOCK UP ON ESSENTIALS:

  • Ensure you have enough groceries and household essentials to last you a prolonged period of time

  • Consider mail ordering your prescriptions to have access to several weeks of medicines and supplies

WATCH FOR SYMPTOMS:

  • Cough

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Repeated shaking with chills

  • Muscle pain

  • Headache

  • Sore throat

  • New loss of taste of smell

  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest

  • New confusion or inability to arouse

  • Bluish lips or face

*This list is not all inclusive. Consult your medical provider for any other symptom that is severe or concerning.

IF YOU THINK YOU’RE SICK:

  • Call your doctor before going in for a test

  • Avoid using public transportation

  • Call IDPH for more information 1-800-889-3931

Remember to check in on your older family member, friend, or neighbor! 

Communicate with them during this time and monitor their health.


Source: Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Administration for Community Living, CDC, March 2020, COVID-19 Precautions Flyer

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