DGD continues to monitor the updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of COVID-19. We have established protocols for staff, nurses, and physicians to follow for a variety of infectious diseases, such as influenza (flu) and related viruses like the COVID-19. These protocols ensure that our response is consistent with the standards of the CDC and local and state health departments.
People infected with COVID-19 develop respiratory illness, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. The symptoms may appear in as little as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure. This is similar to previous serious coronaviruses like MERS and SARS.
COVID-19, like other coronaviruses, is thought to spread from an infected person’s respiratory secretions, such as through coughing. However, the precise ways the virus spreads are not currently well understood.
Treatment and Prevention
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for COVID-19 infection available at this time. Treatment is similar to most viruses, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and treat fever, pain and cough with the appropriate over the counter medications. Currently, diagnostic testing for COVID-19 can only be done by CDC test kits at designated public health labs.
In accordance with CDC preventive measures for all viruses, DGD doctors recommend the following preventive actions:
Wash your hands often
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Avoid contact with sick individuals
Stay home if you are sick
Call your doctor if your illness includes fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
Check the CDC’s Traveler’s Health Notices for the latest travel guidance.
Check for symptoms of acute respiratory illness before starting travel.
If you have any questions or concerns about coming into your scheduled visit, please feel free to call your physicians Medical Assistant (210-614-8612 opt 8) or our schedulers (opt 2). We are ready to assist and answer any questions you may have.
Resources below:
CDC website link provided. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Bexar County Local Health Department link provided. https://www.sanantonio.gov/Health/News/Alerts/CoronaVirus
San Antonio Metropolitan Health District phone number (COVID-19 Hotline): (210) 207-5779
Non-Bexar County Residents (Website to locate your counties health department) https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/regions/2019-nCoV-Local-Health-Entities/