Vela: Coronavirus update

As we learn of more cases of coronavirus in patients both in the United States and abroad, I want to make sure to provide you with useful information to help keep you and your family safe and healthy.

For further updates on the coronavirus I encourage you to sign up for my newsletter here, or you can receive up to date information via my twitter, facebook, or Instagram.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call my office at (956) 544-8352. 

Symptoms

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you have visited China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Japan, or Hong Kong within the past two weeks and start to feel ill, call your doctor immediately.

Prevention

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe

Further Information

Experts have been working hard to understand this new strain of coronavirus. Because new information is coming out every day, please visit the sites below to stay up to date.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides updates on the virus and safety information for the public and healthcare professionals.
• The Texas Department of Health provides updates on the disease's spread within the state, as well as frequently asked questions available.
• The State Department provides a list of travel advisories for those who are planning to fly outside of the United States.