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Caring for Someone Who Has COVID-19
Caring for Someone Who Has COVID-19Your loved one has a COVID-19 infection, and you're caring for them at home. Let's talk about how to do it safely.Isolate themFirst, isolate the sick person. They should stay in one room. Keep them away from others, including you, as much as you can. Have them eat in this room. If possible, have them use a separate bathroom.Wear a maskWhenever you must enter the room with the sick person, put on a mask. Have them put on a mask, too. Wear gloves when you touch them or the things they've had contact with. When you're done, throw your gloves into a lined trash can. Wash your hands right away.Avoid sharingDon't share personal items with the sick person. Don't handle their phone or TV remote. Keep their towels, bedding, dishes and utensils separate. Wash these with soap and hot water.Contact informationMake sure you have their healthcare provider's contact info available. You may need to talk to their doctor or deal with medications. Having this info handy is important.Mild symptomsFor most people, the virus isn't life-threatening. Make sure your loved one is drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest. Over-the-counter medications can help them feel better.Serious symptomsFor some people, a COVID-19 infection can gradually worsen. So you need to monitor their symptoms. Listen for breathing problems. Don't ignore chest pain or pressure. Do they seem confused? Have they stopped responding to you? These are signs that they need emergency medical care. Without it, COVID-19 can be fatal.
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