Outer Banks Hospital: Slow the spread, call before you go

Sign posted outside the JAM Media Solutions Outer Banks studios on March 18, 2020. [Sam Walker photo]

The Outer Banks Hospital has advice about what you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus. And they say that if you think you may be experiencing symptoms, call health experts before you head to the doctor or hospital.

Amy H. Montgomery, Senior Administrator of Operations said in a letter on Monday that through at least the end of March, social distancing is key for everyone.  Bottom line – stay home.

“The Outer Banks Hospital and Medical Group are committed to maintaining care for those who need us despite this outbreak,” Montgomery said. “We continue to provide life-saving care in our emergency department, deliver babies, treat people with cancer and provide outpatient diagnostics and surgery.”

If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath, call the NC Coronavirus Hotline at 1-866-462-3821 or the Dare County COVID-19 Hotline at 475-5008 to speak with someone about your symptoms.  

Also, for non-emergency medical situations and all county services, call before you go to describe your symptoms and if/how you may have been exposed to the virus.
 
Important:  If your symptoms are mild/moderate and you can manage them at home, you do not need to visit a medical facility for a coronavirus test.  This will help prevent spread.  Stay home.
 
Following these guidelines strictly for the next 15 days will help stop the spread of the virus and will help reserve healthcare resources for the most vulnerable who need it most. 
 
Bear in mind that reserving health care resources goes beyond the current coronavirus spread.

This story originally appeared on OBXToday.com. Read More local stories here.

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