COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019)

For COVID-19 Test Guidance please click here.

What is it?

According to the CDC, a novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. Previously identified coronaviruses commonly cause mild illnesses, such as the common cold; COVID19 is different from these other, previously identified, coronaviruses.

COVID-19 Symptoms

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after an exposure:



Fever

Cough

Shortness of breath



Emergency warning signs* include, but aren't limited to:



Trouble breathing

Constant pain or pressure in the chest

Confusion or inability to arouse

Bluish coloration to the face or lips



*Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any emergency warning signs.

What should I do if I am showing symptoms of COVID-19 or I believe I might have been exposed?

If you are concerned about your risk of developing COVID19, please contact your medical provider or the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-889-3931.



If you are experiencing any symptoms and need to seek treatment, please do the following:



1. Call your provider prior to arriving at your appointment.

2. Avoid close contact with people by putting distance between yourself and others.

3. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If a tissue is not available, cough into the bend of your elbow.

What precautions can I take to prevent COVID-19?

The best way to avoid getting the virus is to inform yourself and follow the CDC recommendations. Here are some recommended precautionary measures:



Stay home

Separate yourself from others

Call before visiting your doctor

Wear a facemask if you are sick or caring for others

Cover your coughs and sneezes

Clean your hands often

Avoid sharing personal household items

Clean frequently used surfaces daily

Monitor your symptoms

How is IMH taking precautions and preparing for COVID-19?

As your trusted healthcare provider, IMH is following the CDC recommendations, by applying the strategies we use everyday to detect and prevent the spread of other respiratory viruses like influenza. We want to assure you that we are monitoring the situation closely and working with State and local health agencies to reinforce our systems and structures that support well-coordinated plans, in the event of an outbreak. Please know that we are taking every precaution to ensure your well being, during your visit to any of our facilities.



Effective immediately, visitors will not be allowed at Iroquois Memorial Hospital. If required, one support person may accompany a patient.

Visitors are not permitted at the Resident Home.

All individuals entering the building will be screened at the hospital entrances.

Our cleaning efforts have been heightened to keep everyone safe.

The cleaners used by our environmental services staff are approved for use against COVID19.



*All preceding information is gathered from www.cdc.gov.

How can I help my community?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, IMH is accepting donations. While we currently have adequate PPE available, we are accepting donations for precautionary measures.



Donations accepted:



Surgical masks

N95 respirator masks

3M half masks

PAPRS

Gloves

Cavi Wipes 1 (1 minute kill time) and Sani Wipes

Hand Sanitizer

Gowns

Coveralls/bunny suits

Face shields

Safety glasses

Safety goggles



Donations can be delivered to the Iroquois Memorial Hospital Emergency Department Main Entrance, located at 200 East Fairman Avenue in Watseka, Monday-Friday during normal business hours. Please call 815.432.7762 if you would like to drop off donations at the door.



JoAnn's Fabrics is kindly providing free materials to create masks to donate to hospitals. Please visit https://www.joann.com/make-to-give-response/ to learn more!



Thank you to everyone who has made donations. The support is much appreciated!

Helpful Resources:

www.cdc.gov

www.dph.illinois.gov

http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/health-department/

Infection Prevention link

Community Letter Link

COVID-19 Tent Link

Stop The Spread of Germs Graphic link

Stress Graphic link

Active Coping link



Showbus is now waiving the transportation fee, as well as offering a grocery delivery service for those who are unable to safely get goods from the local grocery store. https://www.showbusonline.org/Iroquois.html