The safety of our patients, employees and community is our highest priority as we continue to reopen normal patient services. On this page, you'll learn about COVID-19 safety and prevention measures. You'll also find links to more COVID-19 information.

How We Keep You Safe

Our hospitals and clinics are using appropriate infection prevention measures to help minimize the spread of COVID-19. 

  • Screening: Patients receive temperature checks and screening questionnaires at facility entrances.
  • Visitor restrictions: We are limiting visitors in our hospitals and clinics.
  • Wearing masks: With the state's masking update, masks are still required for all staff and visitors (vaccinated or not) in our facilities.
  • Testing: Patients are tested for COVID-19 upon admission and before any surgeries.
  • Quarantining: We have separate units for COVID-19 patients, which use strict care plans to avoid the spread of infection.
  • Cleaning and disinfecting: We've implemented appropriate cleaning procedures in our facilities.
  • Using PPE: Our providers are prepared with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) that is recommended for your care.
  • Social distancing: We're staggering appointments and encouraging physical distancing so fewer people are in our waiting rooms at one time.

How You Can Stay Safe

Remember, the COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing. To keep yourself and others safe, keep practicing the CDC's prevention guidelines. Watch the video and follow the guidelines below.

 

  • ​Wash your hands: Was for at least 20 seconds and don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact: Stay six feet away from people as much as possible. 
  • Wear your mask: A mask helps protect others in case you're infected. Remember, some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to prevent spreading respiratory droplets into the air.
  • Clean and disinfect: Use soap, water and disinfectant on surfaces you touch frequently.
  • Monitor your health: Be aware of fever, cough or shortness of breath, especially before going into public. If you're sick, stay home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I protect myself and loved ones?

One of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is vaccination — learn about vaccines and appointments.

Among the most effective ways to prevent infection and spreading are handwashing, limiting contact with others, masking, and getting tested. View our coronavirus fact sheet (PDF) for more prevention tips.

Are children more at risk of infection or serious illness from COVID-19?

No. Most cases of COVID-19 currently involve adults. Though severe illness is uncommon for both healthy children and adults, your child may be more at risk if he or she has other health conditions.

Visit our Children's Hospital website to learn more about what COVID-19 means for kids, parents and expecting moms.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

If you’re experiencing mild to moderate fever, cough or difficulty breathing and think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, you may want to call your doctor (especially if you're more at risk of serious illness). Your doctor will help you understand what to do next based on your unique health needs. Most people are able to recover from COVID-19 by resting at home.

If you are experiencing the following severe symptoms, please visit the emergency room or call 911:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone

 

What do I do if I was exposed to someone who has now tested positive?

In most cases, you should get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or if it's been at least five days since you were in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Learn what to do if you have COVID-19 on the CDC's website. You should also follow the CDC's quarantine and isolation guidelines to limit your exposure to others in the event that you are contagious.

Should I wear a facemask to prevent COVID-19 infection?

The CDC's masking recommendations include wearing a mask in public areas where social distancing is difficult to maintain.

Where can I learn more about COVID-19?

Visit our COVID-19 condition page to learn about risks, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.