Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause illnesses resembling the common cold or flu. In more serious cases, they can cause severe respiratory issues.
Coronaviruses are named for their spike covered surfaces which resemble the points on a crown. Corona means “crown” in Latin.
The coronavirus responsible for the pandemic is called “novel” because it is a new strain never seen before in humans. This virus is thought to have jumped from animals to humans sometime in late 2019. Because it is a newly discovered virus, it is unclear if anyone is immune to it.
The “Novel Coronavirus” or “COVID-19” is the common name of the disease caused by theSars-CoV-2 virus (and is related to the SARS virus that made headlines in 2002 and 2003). While this virus shares many similar traits to the 2002 SARS virus, it’s believed to be more infectious, but less deadly than its predecessor.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that the Novel Coronavirus is spread from human to human through droplets of saliva or mucus containing the virus. Researchers believe the primary means of transmission for the disease are the droplets expelled from an infected person’s mouth during a cough or sneeze.
Researchers believe it is possible that people can get COVID-19 by touching a contaminated surface followed by touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. However, this is not thought to be the main way of contracting the virus.
Additionally, new research has found that the virus particles can become aerosolized and are carried through moisture when someone talks or breathes. You may not think you spit when you speak, but consider breathing onto, or speaking near a mirror; the fog left behind are the actual water droplets that could transmit the virus. This is why social distancing and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) are important.
The symptoms of COVID-19 can vary significantly from one person to the next. Some people are asymptomatic, meaning they experience no symptoms, while others may experience severe, respiratory flu-like symptoms.
According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, fatigue, and a dry cough. Some infected people have also reported aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and diarrhea.
If you are experiencing trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in your chest, confusion or exhaustion, or bluish lips or face, seek medical attention immediately.
At this time, there is no cure or definitive treatment for COVID-19. Doctors and scientists are currently experimenting with a range of medications that have been used to treat other conditions before the appearance of Sars-CoV-2.
Patients with severe symptoms and respiratory distress are being treated with supplemental oxygen. In serious cases, a patient may need to be put on a ventilator. However, it is important to keep in mind that about 80% of people recover from the disease without needing special treatment. For cases that don’t require hospitalization, self-care and treatment regimens similar to those used for flu and cold infections are recommended.
CMS has recently reviewed and revised its policies and has expanded coverage and offerings for all Medicare beneficiaries. As a Medicare beneficiary, you will pay nothing out-of-pocket for COVID-19 lab tests ordered by a physician.
Will Medicare help pay for treatment and hospitalization as a result of COVID-19? If you have to be hospitalized for COVID-19 treatment, Medicare will cover those costs, including fees for extended quarantine stays in the hospital. Check with your plan carrier for details of how your individual plan covers these costs. Consumers can still be responsible for any plan hospital deductibles, copays or coinsurances that apply.
The safest place for anyone during this time is in their home with others who are also self-isolating and social distancing. While going to the doctor is still a necessity, there are other options to help keep you safe from exposure to the virus. Telehealth, or telemedicine, is one of those options.
In response to the pandemic, Medicare has expanded access to telehealth services, allowing you to stay at home while still checking in with your doctor for essential appointments.
Currently, Medicare patients may use telecommunication technology for office visits, hospital visits and other services that generally occur in-person.
