By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last week, DeKalb Regional Medical Center released a statement regarding what to do if you experience symptoms of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus.

Symptoms, which may appear two to 14 days after exposure, include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Those experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to stay home unless receiving medical care.

In their statement, DeKalb Regional Medical Center laid out three points for a plan of action if you believe you may have COVID-19:

• Before seeking care, call your healthcare provider and tell them that you have, or are being evaluated for, COVID-19. Put on a facemask before you enter the facility, or as soon as possible. These steps will help the healthcare provider's office to keep other people in the office or waiting room from getting infected or exposed.
• If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the dispatch personnel that you have, or are being evaluated for COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before emergency medical services arrive.
• If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should stay home when you are sick, cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Those mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. Healthcare professionals advise the need for frequent hand washing and avoidance of touching your face.

As of press time, 34 states and Washington, D.C. have confirmed cases of novel coronavirus with 21 deaths statewide — 18 in Washington state, two in Florida, and one in California.