LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 28, 2020) – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added several new symptoms to its existing list of symptoms for COVID-19.
People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – from mild symptoms to severe illness. Community members should self-monitor for the following symptoms of COVID-19:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
Some of those infected may also experience diarrhea. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Residents who are experiencing these symptoms should:
- Call their primary care physician – If you do not have a primary care physician you may call the COVID-19 Community Hotline Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. to speak with a Health Department nurse.
- If COVID-19 testing is needed – A doctor’s order will be written for testing and information will be provided on where to go for testing.
“If community members are experiencing these symptoms it is important that they reach out to a healthcare professional so that testing can be coordinated if appropriate,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Testing is critical to identifying illness, notifying those who may be at risk, and other efforts to control the spread of disease in our county.”
MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital continues to offer drive-thru COVID-19 testing Monday – Friday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. in front of the Outpatient Pavilion. In order to be tested in the drive-thru, individuals must:
- Be a St. Mary’s County resident
- Have a doctor’s order for testing from a community health care professional or the St. Mary’s County Health Department
- Present a valid photo ID
- Remain in their vehicle with the windows rolled up until it is time to receive their test. An associate will come out to your vehicle.
COVID-19 testing requires a swab to be inserted into the back of the person’s nostril for several seconds. Most individuals experience minor discomfort at most. All tested individuals should continue to self-isolate at home while waiting for results, which should be available within a few days.
Anyone who is experiencing a medical emergency, should call 911 and notify the operator that you have, or think you might have, COVID-19. If possible, put on a cloth face covering before medical help arrives. If you develop any of the following emergency warning signs for COVID-19, please seek medical attention immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
Community members, healthcare providers, and local business owners are encouraged to visit the St. Mary’s County Health Department’s website for local COVID-19 updates, data and information at www.smchd.org/coronavirus.
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