Covid Informed

Caring for someone who is sick with COVID-19

• Treat the symptoms.

  Common symptoms include a fever, coughing, and feeling short of breath. Urge the person to get extra rest and drink plenty of fluids to replace fluids lost from fever.

  To reduce a fever, offer acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). It may also help with muscle aches. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

• Watch for signs that the illness is getting worse.

  The person may need medical care if they're getting sicker (for example, if it's hard to breathe). But call the doctor's office before you go. They can tell you what to do.

  Call 911 or emergency services if the person has any of these symptoms:

  • Severe trouble breathing or shortness of breath
  • Constant pain or pressure in their chest
  • Confusion, or trouble thinking clearly
  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin or lips

  Some people are more likely to get very sick and need medical care. Call the doctor as soon as symptoms start if the person you're caring for is over 65, smokes, or has a serious health problem like asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or an immune system problem.