Thank you for all you are doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 throughout our communities. Your vigilance in adhering to social distancing and stay-at-home guidance has helped to slow the virus and keep everyone safe. We are proud to be a part of the communities we serve and are grateful for your trust and support. Read a letter of thanks from SSM Health President and CEO Laura Kaiser.
We know you still need access to quality care during this time. You can get care safely at SSM Health while: keeping your children current on vaccines, having some elective procedures, using our telehealth services or seeking emergency care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19.
Symptoms & Other Basics | Testing & Recovery | Family Concerns | Serology | En Español
Symptoms and other basics
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
Symptoms for the coronavirus mimic those of other respiratory illnesses—mainly fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath.
How does coronavirus spread?
Viruses typically spread by respiratory droplets. This can occur by coughing or sneezing. The spread or transmission can occur within six feet of an infected person. While this applies to the common cold or influenza, the same principle applies to the COVID-19.
Who's at risk?
There is still a lot we don’t know about COVID-19. Many people experience mild illness from the virus, but it can be more severe for others, even resulting in death. Most of the severe cases involve older persons and those with underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
What are the best ways to protect myself from this or any other respiratory virus?
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand cleaner if soap and water are not available.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a sleeve or a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent the spread of germs.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, especially if someone is sick.
- Stay home if you are sick.
How do I make my own mask?
The CDC now recommends the use of masks and offers easy directions on making your own – two of the methods do not require sewing skills.
How long does the virus last on surfaces?
The WHO reports there is uncertainty as to how long the virus that causes COVID-19 survives on surfaces, but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses. Studies suggest that coronaviruses (including preliminary information on the COVID-19 virus) may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days, depending on surface type. If you think a surface may be infected, clean it with simple disinfectant to kill the virus and protect yourself and others. Clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
Is it safe to handle mail or packages?
The CDC and the WHO, as well as the Surgeon General have indicated that there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 is being spread through the mail.
Testing and Recovery
What should I do if I think I have symptoms of COVID-19?
Call your doctor: If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, go online to complete a free evaluation, or call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Calling ahead allows the healthcare provider’s office to take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed. Click here for more information about caring for someone with COVID-19.
Can I just show up at one of your testing sites to get swabbed?
Please start with this online evaluation that will determine if you qualify for a test at one of our remote sites. The sites are only open to patients who have been screened and qualify for a test.
How long will it take to get test results?
Demand for COVID-19 testing is far outpacing the ability of laboratories to conduct the tests in a timely manner. In addition, testing for patients who are already hospitalized is the labs’ top priority as they follow the recommendations of the CDC. We are working very hard to ensure the health and safety of our patients, visitors, employees and communities.
What is the recovery time?
According to WHO, using available preliminary data, the median time from onset to clinical recovery for mild cases is approximately 2 weeks and is 3-6 weeks for patients with severe or critical disease.
Family Concerns
How do I care for a family member with COVID-19?
Most people who get COVID-19 will be able to recover at home. CDC has directionsfor people who are recovering at home and their caregivers, including:
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Use a separate room and bathroom for sick household members (if possible).
- Clean hands regularly
- Provide your sick household member with clean disposable facemasks to wear at home
- Clean the sick room and bathroom, as needed, to avoid unnecessary contact with the sick person.
- Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, food, and drinks.
Should I have contact with my pet if I have coronavirus?
Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the new coronavirus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick.
Is it OK to travel to visit my family?
In general, people should obey stay-at-home orders from their local or state government to avoid contaminating others – people can be asymptomatic and still carry the disease. For more travel related information, check out the latest CDC recommendation.
Serology
What is serology testing?
These are blood tests to detect the presence of antibodies, which are specific proteins made in response to infections. You can learn more about serology testing from the CDC.
Can serology tests predict who is immune to the virus?
No. Serology testing can play a critical role in helping identify individuals who have overcome a past COVID-19 infection. In the future, these tests may also be used to help determine whether a person has developed immunity or may be able to donate plasma as a possible treatment for seriously ill patients. However, serologic tests should not be used to diagnose a current infection and there is simply not enough evidence to determine whether someone who has been previously exposed to the virus is now immune from future infection.
