The 4th of July holiday tends to bring people together at various events, so Avera professionals are reminding people to review the basics of COVID-19 awareness and prevention.
Dr. Mikel Holland, President and Chief Medical Officer at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre, says modeling suggests central South Dakota is entering a peak of COVID-19 infections now. He says they’re expecting an increase over the next few weeks.
Holland reminds residents there are steps people can take to help protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19:
• Wear a mask
• Maintain a 6-foot distance from others in public
• Avoid Crowds
• Especially avoid contact with anyone who is sick
• Stay home when you are sick except to get medical care
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if you cannot wash
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
If you think you might have the virus, call your clinic before going there in person. Coronavirus symptoms include fever over 100 degrees, as well as cough or shortness of breath appearing in the past 14 days.
In the case of emergency symptoms that could be life-threatening, get immediate help. Call your local emergency room or 911 to inform them you have COVID-19 symptoms, then go. Emergency symptoms include bluish lips or skin, difficulty breathing or fever over 104 degrees that doesn’t respond to treatment.
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