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A virus spreads quickly if it is an airborne virus like the coronavirus, which means it spreads when people who are sick with the virus don’t cover their face when they cough or sneeze. The virus can be suspended in the air long enough to reach others, even if they aren’t standing close. It can also be spread when the virus is on an infected person’s hands or something they have touched.
Once a vaccine is made, an epidemic can be controlled. For example, the flu killed millions in the early 1900s before a vaccine was produced. Now it is easily controlled if people get the flu shot once a year and stay out of public places when they are sick.
If you have ever had the flu, you’ll know what coronavirus feels like. Symptoms includes fever, cough and shortness of breath. Your symptoms could be mild or severe.
If you start showing these symptoms, call ahead before you go to a doctor's office or emergency room. Tell them about any recent travel and your symptoms.
The best thing you can do to keep from getting COVID-19 is the same as what you would do to avoid any other airborne virus.
The CDC and other experts have websites with advice on preventing the spread of airborne viruses:
The World Health Organization has created a website to give advice on preventing the spread of the coronavirus. It includes a video, prevention tips and travel advice.
While the coronavirus is getting a lot of media attention, flu is still the biggest worry in the U.S. It spreads quickly, in part because many people don’t get the flu shot each year.
The flu shot is covered by your health insurance as preventive care*. That means you won’t pay anything when you get your shot. Your health plan covers all the cost. Many pharmacies give flu shots, as do most doctor’s offices.
We are fully committed to serving our members and the communities we serve. We will collaborate with hospitals, doctors and government agencies that are treating and trying to contain the virus. If you have questions about coverage or additional benefits that you may have on your health plan that can help during this time, call the number on your Member ID card.