Jupiter Medical Center Follows CDC Guidelines for the Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
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- Written By: Jupiter Medical Center
JUPITER, Fla. (UPDATED March 5, 2020) – Jupiter Medical Center is closely monitoring for novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and has implemented the Florida Department of Health Guidelines and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines for the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of patients who exhibit symptoms. The medical center is actively monitoring the cases reported in Florida by the Florida Department of Health.
The Florida Department of Health is maintaining a hotline for Floridians to call: 1-866-779-6121.
“Jupiter Medical Center has vigorously followed the CDC guidelines for screening, prevention, control, diagnosis, and treatment,” said Dr. S. Raymond Golish, chief quality officer of Jupiter Medical Center. “Vigilance and awareness are essential. We are communicating and working closely with the Palm Beach County and Florida Departments of Health.”
According to the CDC guidelines, patients who have fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, should call their physician or the medical center before arriving. Upon arrival, patients would receive a careful evaluation, including a review of their recent travel history. If they are considered to be a possible case, the local, state, and federal health authorities are notified. Jupiter Medical Center works closely and collaboratively with state officials to optimize the evaluation and treatment of any possible cases.
Symptoms of COVID-19 may be mild or severe and may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Person-to-person spread is occurring, but details continue to be investigated.
While coronavirus COVID-19 is causing global concern, a more common respiratory virus – the flu – also poses a significant risk to Florida residents. The state is currently experiencing a moderately severe flu season, according to the Florida Department of Health.
“We are keeping a watchful eye on the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and we have vigorously prepared for the possibility of COVID-19 cases. But the flu is also here now,” Dr. Golish said. “If you’re not already vaccinated, it’s not too late to get one.
How You Can Prevent Infections
The CDC recommends members of the community take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of all types of respiratory viruses.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
More information provided by the Florida Department of Health and the CDC is available at the following links:
What to Do if You Think You May Be Sick
http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/COVID-19/faq.html
Frequently Asked Questions
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html
MEDIA CONTACT
Jupiter Medical Center