General

 
If you have more questions, please contact the Solution Squad at (314) 529-9360 or email ssc@maryville.edu.
 

• What is a novel coronavirus?

  A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

• Who is at higher risk for severe illness?

  COVID-19 is a new disease and there is limited information regarding risk factors for severe disease. Based on currently available information and clinical expertise, older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-at-higher-risk.html.

• How does the virus spread?

  The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6’). For more information visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.

• Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be spread through food, including restaurant take out, refrigerated or frozen packaged food?

  Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. Currently, there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with food. Before preparing or eating food it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds for general food safety. Throughout the day use a tissue to cover your coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing or going to the bathroom. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.

• Am I at risk for COVID-19 from mail, packages or products?

  There is still a lot that is unknown about COVID-19 and how it spreads. Coronaviruses are thought to be spread most often by respiratory droplets. Although the virus can survive for a short period on some surfaces, it is unlikely to be spread from domestic or international mail, products or packaging. However, it may be possible that people can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/essential-goods-services.html.

• What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?

  People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

  This list does not include all possible symptoms. The CDC will continue to update this list as we learn more about COVID-19. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html.

• How do I prevent the spread of COVID-19?

  We encourage all Maryville community members to become familiar with the CDC recommendations https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html for prevention, including:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home. • Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home. Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when around others.
  • If you are around others and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.
  • Monitor your health and be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19.

• What is the status of cases of COVID-19 in Missouri?

  For updated state information, visit the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website. https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/.

• I may have been exposed to COVID-19. What should I do?

  If you have had close contact with a person with confirmed COVID-19, you should quarantine for 14 days and monitor for signs and symptoms of coronavirus. Check with your primary care provider if symptoms develop to determine if testing is needed. You can also call the St. Louis County COVID-19 Hotline at 314-615-2660. If you are a residential student living on-campus and symptoms develop, you may contact the Maryville Health and Wellness staff at healthandwellness@maryville.edu to determine if testing is needed.