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    • COVID-19 update from PMH

    March 18, 2020
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    Pocahontas Memorial Hospital continues to implement new processes to protect our patients, our staff, and our community from the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Sanitizing stations are located at each entrance of the hospital with signs instructing anyone with a cough, fever or shortness of breath to take a mask and notify staff immediately.
    Hospital administration particularly wants to stress that if you have one of these symptoms or suspect that you may have the coronavirus, to please call ahead before presenting at the hospital. This allows our staff to take early steps to protect both our patients and staff from possible infection. As cases begin to appear in our state, our processes will continue to evolve.
    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80% of coronavirus cases are quite mild with only flu or cold-like symptoms. Mild cases require no hospitalization and generally are just treated at home with self-care, including plenty of hydration and rest.
    Those at most risk are the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Just as we are advised to take the flu shot each fall to help protect those we love; we must take precautions for this virus the same way. Everyday preventatives to help prevent the spread of this virus as well as any virus and respiratory disease, include:
    • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
    • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
    • Staying at home when you are sick
    • Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash or coughing/sneezing into your inner arm if a tissue is not available
    • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
    • Washing 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
    • Using an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not readily available
    For updates to information and guidance, we recommend visiting the CDC’s coronavirus website at www.cdc.gov /coronavirus/2019-ncov/index. html

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