COVID-19

This guide aims to provide current information and reliable resources for understanding and responding to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Updated information and guidance will be provided as they become available from public health authorities.

• Governor Abbott issued two new statewide executive orders: (1) an Executive Order that requires masks and (2) a proclamation that prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people. Both are effective at noon, July 3, 2020.
• The current "Stay Home Work Safe" orders (Eighth Addendum to 8th Declaration of Public Health Emergency Regarding COVID-19) state that all people 10 years or older shall wear a cloth face covering over their nose and mouth when in a public place where it is difficult to maintain six feet of distance from others, such as when visiting a grocery store/pharmacy or working in areas that involve close proximity with other coworkers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise face coverings for people 2 years or older: CDC Guidance for Daily Activities to Reduce Risk of COVID-19.

WHAT IS COVID-19?
Coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, is caused by a novel coronavirus that was first identified as part of an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

WHAT'S A CORONAVIRUS?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). A novel coronavirus is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

HOW DOES COVID-19 SPREAD?
The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 spreads very easily and sustainably 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. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
• COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.
• It may be possible that a person can become infected by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about this virus. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html
• People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Older adults and people with underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes are at higher risk for serious complications from COVID-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND FAMILY
Currently there’s no vaccine for COVID-19, and the best way  to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

• Stay home as much as possible and put distance between yourself and other people (at least 6 ft) when you must go out while COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This social distancing is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick (see above).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT OTHERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

• Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
• Wear a cloth face covering* in public spaces such as grocery stores where it's difficult to consistently maintain a safe distance of 6 ft from others. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms. Face covering also adds an extra layer of protection for yourself but does not replace social distancing as the main preventive measure.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

*CDC recommends that people wear a cloth face covering to cover their nose and mouth in the community setting. Surgical masks and N95 respirators are in short supply and should be reserved for healthcare workers or other medical first responders.

 

24/7 Mental Health Support Line

Texas Health and Human Services launched a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Call toll-free at 1.833.986.1919 anytime to speak to a counselor.

 

See more Counseling & Wellness Resources here.