In response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Rhode Island, Brown Medicine is working closely with public health officials, and we are here to help you.
If you are experiencing symptoms, have traveled to a high-risk area, or have been in contact with a person diagnosed with a confirmed or unconfirmed case of coronavirus, it is very important that you do not walk in without an appointment as we need to be prepared for your visit.
All patients and persons accompanying them to an appointment must wear a mask at that covers their nose and mouth at all times. Patients will be guided by their physician as to when/if they can remove their mask. Guests are asked to wait in their vehicles for patients to notify them when they are ready for pick-up after their appointment. All waiting room areas are set up for proper physical distancing.
We are following the guidance of the RI Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to make sure our offices remain safe for every patient. This includes cleaning and disinfecting our offices, and conducting pre-screening of all patients for symptoms.
Help yourself by conducting frequent hand washing and cleaning surfaces in your home, at work, or even in your automobile. Help others by staying home from work, school or crowds. Help us have more time to answer questions by using the patient portal for routine requests.
Stay informed. Please visit the CDC for reliable and up to date information at
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
PREVENTION TIPS:
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. It is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet); through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks; and when these droplets land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or are inhaled into the lungs.
The CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even at home.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others while also maintaining social distance.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household disinfectant.
- Be alert for symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers and the spread of germs.
Source: cdc.gov
