Table E2.

COVID-19 frequently asked questions

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a new form of coronavirus first identified in December 2019. Coronaviruses in general are not new and are a common cause of colds and upper respiratory tract infections. We don't yet know why this new form, COVID-19, is more severe.

How is COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through respiratory droplets in coughs or sneezes. It can live on surfaces as well through these droplets.

What is the time period when COVID-19 can spread?

Unfortunately, people can spread infection to others before symptoms first appear. It can then be spread for up to 14 days after symptom onset (possibly longer).

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Most people experience mild illness, but severe illness and death can occur. Fever, cough, and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms.

How is COVID-19 treated?

There are no current vaccines or antiviral treatments to use when someone is acutely infected. Treatment relies on supportive care to treat symptoms when they occur.

When should I seek emergency care?

Seek immediate medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, sudden confusion, or inability to stay awake. These are not the only reasons someone may need emergency care—call your doctor for other concerns. Call any emergency department or medical provider BEFORE arrival to allow them to put precautions in place.

Can I get tested for COVID-19 at your office?

The indications for testing as well as availability for testing are constantly changing. Please refer to our Web site for current information or call our office with any questions.

When should I cancel my regularly scheduled allergy appointment?

Some nonurgent visits will likely be cancelled for you. If your visit has not been canceled, please call to discuss any specific concerns before arrival, especially if you have had recent travel to high-risk countries or contact with anyone with known/suspected COVID-19. Also call before arrival if you have had fever/cough in the past 2 wk.

Is it safe to come to your office?

Offices are taking all recommended precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including reassessing what care must be done in a face-to-face manner, screening all patients and accompanying family members, regularly disinfecting examination rooms and public areas, and staying up to date with current recommendations from the local Department of Public Health.

I'm getting allergy shots—What should I do?

Please call or refer to the practice Web site for up-to-date information. Practices may need to change the way allergy shots are administered and will notify patients as soon as possible of any changes. Unless you hear differently, please continue your current schedule. However, for some patients, this may be held for the time being, and doses missed.

Will your office be closing?

Offices may need to adjust the number of appointments or types of visits depending on future spread of COVID-19. Please refer to the practice Web site for the most up-to-date information.

What if I have asthma? How will COVID-19 affect me?

We do not have a lot of information regarding risk of asthma exacerbation with COVID-19. For now, we recommend continuing all currently prescribed daily asthma medications, contacting your health care provider if you have had frequent symptoms or have needed your rescue inhaler more often, and starting your asthma treatment plan as soon as possible if symptoms occur.

Are steroids harmful if someone has COVID-19?

It does not appear that inhaled steroids or short courses of oral steroids are harmful for the treatment of asthma. Risks of stopping regular use of inhaled steroids include a loss of asthma control and possible need for treatment with oral steroids. Please do not stop any medications without discussing with your doctor.

I have an immune deficiency—What precautions should I take?

Please contact your doctor directly to discuss any necessary precautions. There are a wide range of immune deficiencies that may have different risk. All general precautions should be followed as outlined above.