[Coronavirus Update]
The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (DOH-Alachua) is informing residents that it is imperative for any individuals who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) to contact the Alachua County Health Department at 352-225-4181 during regular business hours or at 352-334-7900 after hours, before traveling to any physician's office, emergency department, hospital, or urgent care center. This is to ensure proper protective measures are taken to prevent further risk of spread to others.
Learn more about COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) from the Florida Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The City of Archer is currently monitoring the status of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Alachua County is prepared to manage cases and suspected cases should they occur. Citizens who have questions or concerns about Coronavirus can call the Florida Dept. of Health Emergency Call Center which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1 (866) 779-6121 or email your questions to COVID-19 [at] flhealth.gov (COVID-19[at]flhealth[dot]gov)
About COVID-19
The CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in 60 locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).
Prevent Illness
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Protect yourself and your community from COVID-19
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home when you are sick.
For more information on how you can protect yourself, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention-treatment.html
Watch for Symptoms
Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed COVID-19 cases.
The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.
Fever
Cough
Shortness of Breath
For more information on the symptoms you should watch out for, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/symptoms.html
What to do if you are sick
Call your doctor: If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately.
Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick:
Stay home except to get medical care
Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
Call ahead before visiting your doctor
Wear a facemask if you are sick
Cover your coughs and sneezes
Clean your hands often
Avoid sharing personal household items
Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
Monitor your symptoms
For more information on how you can prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html