Covid-19-General
General Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information
Cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported in South Carolina as well as several other states. As the news around COVID-19 evolves, our priority remains the same — to take care of our customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that may cause illness in people. The name of this new respiratory disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19.
- What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
- How dangerous is this virus?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention* (CDC), information so far suggests that most COVID-19 illness is mild. However, reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness. Older people and people with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, seem to be at greater risk of serious illness.
- How is the virus passed from one person to another?
Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. The virus is thought to spread from one person to another through respiratory droplets. These droplets are produced when someone with the illness coughs or sneezes. The droplets can be inhaled, land in the mouths or noses of people nearby and can persist for a short period of time on some surfaces. It generally takes prolonged and close (fewer than six feet away) contact to become infected.
- How can I prevent the spread of the coronavirus or other respiratory viruses?
There are things you can do to prevent the spread of illness. According to the CDC, you should:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Studies show there is no added health benefit to using antibacterial soap compared to plain soap in a non-health care setting.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Other Helpful Resources:
The World Health Organization*
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention*
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control*
*The World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control are independent organizations that offer health information you may find helpful.