Public Health Advisories ( Disaster/Emergency Issues )
Provider: CORONAVIRUS GENERAL INFORMATION AND FAQ - GENERAL INFORMATION AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
211 DOES NOT HAVE ANY INFORMATION OR AUTHORITY ON REFERRING INDIVIDUALS TO QUARANTINE SITES.
To view the County of Los Angeles Case Count Dashboard visit,
http://dashboard.publichealth.lacounty.gov/covid19_surveillance_dashboard/
To view a map of Local Emergency Proclamations visit,
https://lacounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=#/aa4dd9e9530748fdb287411104531255
For a copy of the Health Officer Order guidance for Community Care Facilities please see,
http://www.ph.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/HOO/HOO_CommunityCareFacilities.pdf Key Points
For up to date information on COVID-19 visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website at http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/ and CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Many of them infect animals, but some coronaviruses from animals can evolve (change) into a new human coronavirus that can spread from person-to-person. This is what happened with the new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease known as COVID-19. Diseases from coronaviruses in people typically cause mild to moderate illness, like the common cold. Some, like the SARS or MERS viruses cause serious infections like pneumonia.
FAQs about Coronavirus variants, including Delta, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma
The CDC is tracking a number of variants of concern in the United States. Local testing to determine which variant of Coronavirus an individual is infected with is not currently available. Available Coronavirus testing will provide a positive result if any of the variant strains including Delta are detected. Visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/about/FAQ-Variants.pdf for up to date information.
How are coronaviruses spread?
COVID-19 is spread in the same way as other respiratory illnesses. It is spread from person to person through:
- Droplets produced through coughing and sneezing.
- Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person.
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands
Do not assume that someone of a race or nationality is likely to have COVID-19; this new virus has infected people of many different races and nationalities across the entire world.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19 may include some combination of the following symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, congestion or runny nose, or new loss of taste or smell. This list of symptoms is not all inclusive.
If you have any of these symptoms or any others that are concerning to you, you need to call your medical provider. If you are having serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, feel pain or pressure in your chest, have bluish lips or face or are experiencing a new onset of confusion or difficulty waking up, or other serious symptoms, you need to call 911 now or go to an emergency room.
If you have fever, cough, or shortness of breath or your provider informs you that you are most likely infected, stay home for at least 10 days from when your symptoms first appeared AND at least 3 days (72 hours) after recovery, which means your fever has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications AND there is an improvement in your symptoms.
What to do if you if you have symptoms of COVID-19
- If you have a fever with cough or shortness of breath, you are presumed to have COVID-19.
- If you have any of these symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, congestion or runny nose, or new loss of taste or smell, or any symptoms that concern you, let your doctor know and get a test for COVID-19.
- People who are elderly, or have a weak immune system, or other medical problems are at higher risk of more serious illness or complications. They should seek medical care early if their symptoms are concerning or get worse.
- To protect others, stay home, wear a facemask when you seek medical care, and follow the Home Isolation Instructions: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/
- Make note of the day when your symptoms first started and monitor your health.
- Seek prompt medical care if your symptoms get worse. If they are life-threatening, call 911.
Can I get tested for the coronavirus?
Testing is recommended only for those who are symptomatic and contacts. If you are sick, and need to get tested, contact your doctor or visit https://covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/ for a same day or next day appointment.
If you are having a medical emergency or extreme symptoms such as, trouble breathing, fever or dehydration please call 911.
Additional information about testing is available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidtests/
How do I pay for COVID-19 testing?
At the Governor's direction, all full-service health insurance carriers were asked to eliminate patient costs related to the screening for the virus, including co-pays, deductibles, and coinsurance. This includes hospital and emergency room visits, urgent care treatment, and visits to provider offices related to COVID-19 testing. The directive also states insurers must waive preauthorization when the care involves COVID-19, permit out-of-network care when required, and specifically mentions telehealth or virtual visits with a health-care provider via video.
Contact your insurance provider for additional details regarding charges related to COVID-19
What if I test positive?
If your doctor tells you that they think that you have COVID-19, or if your test is positive for COVID-19, or you have a fever and cough or shortness of breath you should: - Stay home except to get medical care
- Follow the Home Isolation Instructions carefully: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/
- Tell everyone with whom you have been in close contact for 15 minutes or more, starting from 48 hours before your symptoms started that they need to quarantine for 14 days from their last contact with you. Tell them that they need to follow these Home Quarantine Instructions: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidquarantine/
- A "Close Contact" is an individual who was within 6 feet of the infected person for more than 15 minutes; an individual who had unprotected contact with the infected person's body fluids and/or secretions, for example, being coughed or sneezed on, sharing utensils or saliva, or providing care without wearing appropriate protective equipment.
How is novel coronavirus treated?
There is no specific treatment for illness caused by the novel coronavirus. However, many of the symptoms can be treated. Treatment is based on the patient's condition. Be aware of scam products for sale that make false claims to prevent or treat this new infection. Visit link below for information about COVID-19 vaccines:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm
Reduce Your Risk and protect myself and others from respiratory infections like COVID-19
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protection/ReduceRiskInfographic.pdf
Can COVID-19 spread to my pets?
Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of pets spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. It appears that COVID-19 it can spread from people to animals in some situations but most pets who have gotten sick only had mild illness and fully recovered. Resources for pet owners, veterinarians and animal care and control agencies are available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/PetsCOVID19.htm
Where can I get masks and gloves?
Do not purchase surgical masks, N95 respirators and gloves unless you have been directed to do so by your health care provider, you are caring for someone with COVID-19 or if they are required for non-COVID-19 related issues. It is important to conserve these items for healthcare providers and those individuals who need these items the most. If needed, they can be purchased through local pharmacies, most general stores, or online.
Cloth face coverings like a bandana or scarf should be used by the general public to cover the nose and mouth when they need to leave their home for a short period of time to obtain essential services or goods. It is important to notes that these are not a substitute for social distancing and other prevention measures like washing your hands regularly. Visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/masks/ for additional mask guidance.
What are the cleaning procedures for preventing the spread of infections like COVID-19?
- Follow the instructions on product labels, including wearing gloves and having good ventilation.
- Use household cleaners and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface.
- To find out if the product works against viruses, read the product label, call the 1-800 number on the label or visit www.epa.gov.
- A bleach solution can also be used as a disinfectant - mix 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 quart of water, or for a larger supply, add 1/3 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
- Additional home cleaning guidance is available at: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protection/CleaningInfographic.pdf
- Businesses should visit this link for guidance: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/guidances.htm#business
Hand Sanitizer Recall
The FDA advises consumers not to use over 150 different hand sanitizers made by more than 50 companies because they may:
- Contain methanol (wood alcohol). Methanol can cause serious health problems such as blindness, and even death.
- Contain 1-propanol, a toxic type of alcohol
- Not have enough alcohol in them to work properly.
- Be contaminated with germs.
FDA adds products daily to the recall list. They have been on the shelves in Los Angeles recently, and have been sold at Dollar Tree, 99Ct Store, and Costco. Search this complete list of products being recalled: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-updates-hand-sanitizers-consumers-should-not-use#products Other important hand sanitizer safety tips:
- DO NOT ingest hand sanitizer- if it is swallowed, seek medical attention immediately and contact Poison Control (800) 222-1222
- Always keep out of reach of children and supervise their use
For more information, visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/hccp/covidscams/#HandSanitizer
Travel Information
Do not travel if you are sick, or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days. If you must travel, protect yourself and others by wearing a cloth face covering, maintaining social distancing as much as possible, and washing your hands frequently. If possible, carry disinfectant wipes with you to clean surfaces before you touch them.
Los Angeles County Public Health Travel Advisory and Guidance is available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/traveladvisory.htm
If you are thinking of traveling, answer these questions first:
- Is COVID-19 spreading where you're going?
- Are you, or anyone you are traveling with, visiting, or spending time with at your destination or when you return home, more likely to get very ill from COVID-19 ?
- Does the country, state, or local government where you are traveling to or returning to require you to stay home for 14 days after traveling?
- If you are required to stay home or if you get sick with COVID-19, will you have to miss work or school?
The CDC offers travel guidance on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html" target=
What if I have questions about my business or employer?
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health provides guidance for different industries at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/guidances.htm#business
Beware of false news, hoaxes, and scams
Accurate information, including announcements of new cases in LA County, will always be distributed by Public Health through official channels in the form of a press release and will also be available on the Public Health website www.publichealth.lacounty.gov and social media accounts @lapublichealth.
Be aware of scam products for sale that make false claims to prevent or treat COVID-19. View more information about COVID-19 Scams and Fraud here: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/hccp/covidscams/
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
World Health Organization
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/
APPLICATION PROCEDURE See Information Above FEES/PAYMENT SOURCE Not Applicable
To view the County of Los Angeles Case Count Dashboard visit,
http://dashboard.publichealth.lacounty.gov/covid19_surveillance_dashboard/
To view a map of Local Emergency Proclamations visit,
https://lacounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=#/aa4dd9e9530748fdb287411104531255
For a copy of the Health Officer Order guidance for Community Care Facilities please see,
http://www.ph.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/HOO/HOO_CommunityCareFacilities.pdf Key Points
For up to date information on COVID-19 visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website at http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/ and CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Many of them infect animals, but some coronaviruses from animals can evolve (change) into a new human coronavirus that can spread from person-to-person. This is what happened with the new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease known as COVID-19. Diseases from coronaviruses in people typically cause mild to moderate illness, like the common cold. Some, like the SARS or MERS viruses cause serious infections like pneumonia.
FAQs about Coronavirus variants, including Delta, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma
The CDC is tracking a number of variants of concern in the United States. Local testing to determine which variant of Coronavirus an individual is infected with is not currently available. Available Coronavirus testing will provide a positive result if any of the variant strains including Delta are detected. Visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/about/FAQ-Variants.pdf for up to date information.
How are coronaviruses spread?
COVID-19 is spread in the same way as other respiratory illnesses. It is spread from person to person through:
- Droplets produced through coughing and sneezing.
- Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person.
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands
Do not assume that someone of a race or nationality is likely to have COVID-19; this new virus has infected people of many different races and nationalities across the entire world.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19 may include some combination of the following symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, congestion or runny nose, or new loss of taste or smell. This list of symptoms is not all inclusive.
If you have any of these symptoms or any others that are concerning to you, you need to call your medical provider. If you are having serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, feel pain or pressure in your chest, have bluish lips or face or are experiencing a new onset of confusion or difficulty waking up, or other serious symptoms, you need to call 911 now or go to an emergency room.
If you have fever, cough, or shortness of breath or your provider informs you that you are most likely infected, stay home for at least 10 days from when your symptoms first appeared AND at least 3 days (72 hours) after recovery, which means your fever has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications AND there is an improvement in your symptoms.
What to do if you if you have symptoms of COVID-19
- If you have a fever with cough or shortness of breath, you are presumed to have COVID-19.
- If you have any of these symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, congestion or runny nose, or new loss of taste or smell, or any symptoms that concern you, let your doctor know and get a test for COVID-19.
- People who are elderly, or have a weak immune system, or other medical problems are at higher risk of more serious illness or complications. They should seek medical care early if their symptoms are concerning or get worse.
- To protect others, stay home, wear a facemask when you seek medical care, and follow the Home Isolation Instructions: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/
- Make note of the day when your symptoms first started and monitor your health.
- Seek prompt medical care if your symptoms get worse. If they are life-threatening, call 911.
Can I get tested for the coronavirus?
Testing is recommended only for those who are symptomatic and contacts. If you are sick, and need to get tested, contact your doctor or visit https://covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/ for a same day or next day appointment.
If you are having a medical emergency or extreme symptoms such as, trouble breathing, fever or dehydration please call 911.
Additional information about testing is available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidtests/
How do I pay for COVID-19 testing?
At the Governor's direction, all full-service health insurance carriers were asked to eliminate patient costs related to the screening for the virus, including co-pays, deductibles, and coinsurance. This includes hospital and emergency room visits, urgent care treatment, and visits to provider offices related to COVID-19 testing. The directive also states insurers must waive preauthorization when the care involves COVID-19, permit out-of-network care when required, and specifically mentions telehealth or virtual visits with a health-care provider via video.
Contact your insurance provider for additional details regarding charges related to COVID-19
What if I test positive?
If your doctor tells you that they think that you have COVID-19, or if your test is positive for COVID-19, or you have a fever and cough or shortness of breath you should: - Stay home except to get medical care
- Follow the Home Isolation Instructions carefully: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/
- Tell everyone with whom you have been in close contact for 15 minutes or more, starting from 48 hours before your symptoms started that they need to quarantine for 14 days from their last contact with you. Tell them that they need to follow these Home Quarantine Instructions: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidquarantine/
- A "Close Contact" is an individual who was within 6 feet of the infected person for more than 15 minutes; an individual who had unprotected contact with the infected person's body fluids and/or secretions, for example, being coughed or sneezed on, sharing utensils or saliva, or providing care without wearing appropriate protective equipment.
How is novel coronavirus treated?
There is no specific treatment for illness caused by the novel coronavirus. However, many of the symptoms can be treated. Treatment is based on the patient's condition. Be aware of scam products for sale that make false claims to prevent or treat this new infection. Visit link below for information about COVID-19 vaccines:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm
Reduce Your Risk and protect myself and others from respiratory infections like COVID-19
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protection/ReduceRiskInfographic.pdf
Can COVID-19 spread to my pets?
Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of pets spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. It appears that COVID-19 it can spread from people to animals in some situations but most pets who have gotten sick only had mild illness and fully recovered. Resources for pet owners, veterinarians and animal care and control agencies are available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/PetsCOVID19.htm
Where can I get masks and gloves?
Do not purchase surgical masks, N95 respirators and gloves unless you have been directed to do so by your health care provider, you are caring for someone with COVID-19 or if they are required for non-COVID-19 related issues. It is important to conserve these items for healthcare providers and those individuals who need these items the most. If needed, they can be purchased through local pharmacies, most general stores, or online.
Cloth face coverings like a bandana or scarf should be used by the general public to cover the nose and mouth when they need to leave their home for a short period of time to obtain essential services or goods. It is important to notes that these are not a substitute for social distancing and other prevention measures like washing your hands regularly. Visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/masks/ for additional mask guidance.
What are the cleaning procedures for preventing the spread of infections like COVID-19?
- Follow the instructions on product labels, including wearing gloves and having good ventilation.
- Use household cleaners and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface.
- To find out if the product works against viruses, read the product label, call the 1-800 number on the label or visit www.epa.gov.
- A bleach solution can also be used as a disinfectant - mix 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 quart of water, or for a larger supply, add 1/3 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
- Additional home cleaning guidance is available at: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protection/CleaningInfographic.pdf
- Businesses should visit this link for guidance: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/guidances.htm#business
Hand Sanitizer Recall
The FDA advises consumers not to use over 150 different hand sanitizers made by more than 50 companies because they may:
- Contain methanol (wood alcohol). Methanol can cause serious health problems such as blindness, and even death.
- Contain 1-propanol, a toxic type of alcohol
- Not have enough alcohol in them to work properly.
- Be contaminated with germs.
FDA adds products daily to the recall list. They have been on the shelves in Los Angeles recently, and have been sold at Dollar Tree, 99Ct Store, and Costco. Search this complete list of products being recalled: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-updates-hand-sanitizers-consumers-should-not-use#products Other important hand sanitizer safety tips:
- DO NOT ingest hand sanitizer- if it is swallowed, seek medical attention immediately and contact Poison Control (800) 222-1222
- Always keep out of reach of children and supervise their use
For more information, visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/hccp/covidscams/#HandSanitizer
Travel Information
Do not travel if you are sick, or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days. If you must travel, protect yourself and others by wearing a cloth face covering, maintaining social distancing as much as possible, and washing your hands frequently. If possible, carry disinfectant wipes with you to clean surfaces before you touch them.
Los Angeles County Public Health Travel Advisory and Guidance is available at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/traveladvisory.htm
If you are thinking of traveling, answer these questions first:
- Is COVID-19 spreading where you're going?
- Are you, or anyone you are traveling with, visiting, or spending time with at your destination or when you return home, more likely to get very ill from COVID-19 ?
- Does the country, state, or local government where you are traveling to or returning to require you to stay home for 14 days after traveling?
- If you are required to stay home or if you get sick with COVID-19, will you have to miss work or school?
The CDC offers travel guidance on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html" target=
What if I have questions about my business or employer?
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health provides guidance for different industries at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/guidances.htm#business
Beware of false news, hoaxes, and scams
Accurate information, including announcements of new cases in LA County, will always be distributed by Public Health through official channels in the form of a press release and will also be available on the Public Health website www.publichealth.lacounty.gov and social media accounts @lapublichealth.
Be aware of scam products for sale that make false claims to prevent or treat COVID-19. View more information about COVID-19 Scams and Fraud here: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/hccp/covidscams/
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
World Health Organization
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/
APPLICATION PROCEDURE See Information Above FEES/PAYMENT SOURCE Not Applicable