Coronavirus (COVID-19) News and Information

UMass Memorial continues to monitor the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and is ready to respond to any cases in our area. At present, the information on this virus is changing on a daily basis. There are nearly 170,000 cases worldwide. Currently, there are more than 3,500 cases that have been confirmed in the United States. 

With new cases being reported daily in the U.S., UMass Memorial has formed a Coronavirus Task Force that is monitoring the outbreak worldwide, staying current with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updates, working closely with the Worcester Department of Public Health and other health officials, and finalizing readiness measures, including distribution of protective equipment. 

Coronavirus Information Translated

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers COVID-19 information, updated daily, in several different languages. View its COVID-19 Fact Sheets and Coronavirus 2019 Information.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

The infection can vary in severity from having only a mild illness that can be managed at home, to severe disease requiring hospitalization. According to the World Health Organization, symptoms of the coronavirus can include: 

  • Respiratory symptoms
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Breathing difficulties

In more severe cases, an infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. 

The virus is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread when someone touches a contaminated surface, such as a door handle. People who have been exposed may not exhibit symptoms for up to 14 days. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, please call your health care provider immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information for Patients with an Upcoming Appointment

If you have an upcoming appointment and are experiencing a fever, cough or shortness of breath, please call the office before coming in.

For everyone’s safety, we are screening all patients coming in for appointments for the coronavirus.  Upon arrival for your appointment, you will be asked about recent travel and symptoms, including fever, cough or shortness of breath. You may be asked to wear a mask and sanitize your hands. If you have any questions or concerns, please call your health care provider. 

Information for the General Public

If you are experiencing a fever, cough or shortness of breath, please call your primary care physician for guidance. We request that you do not come to the emergency department or urgent care sites to have those particular symptoms evaluated. Follow hand washing guidelines and learn how to stop spreading germs.

Flu Also A Concern In Central Massachusetts

We also are currently experiencing a large number of flu cases in our area. Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control, symptoms of the flu include: 

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Vomiting and diarrhea for some, though this is more common in children than adults

Prevention is Key

 

Click each of the photos above to see how you can prevent the spread of germs. 

Both the coronavirus and the flu can be prevented. For the flu, it's important to get vaccinated. There is currently no vaccination for the coronavirus. It's also important you make every effort to minimize the spread of all respiratory viruses by:

  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Staying home when you’re sick
  • Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing; use a tissue or cough into your elbow
  • Avoiding close contact with those who are sick
  • Cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces that you touch frequently

  

Click each of the photos above to see how to properly wash your hands. 

UMass Memorial News

Information from Health Care Organizations and Agencies

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Coronavirus Homepage

World Health Organization
Coronavirus Homepage

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
Geographical Distribution of 2019-nCov Cases

 

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