Coronaviruses (CoV) are a family of viruses that cause illness in humans and animals. Illness caused by coronaviruses range from the common cold to more severe respiratory illnesses and even pneumonia in some specific cases.
The novel (new) coronavirus now in the news – COVID-19 – was first identified in December 2019.
Read: Vaccine Requirement at Union Health
As Union Health continues to monitor the fluctuating status of the COVID-19 pandemic and its variants, our mission has and will remain the same: to serve our patients with compassionate health care of the highest quality.
Read more about our decision here: Vaccine Requirement at Union Health
Watch: Words of thanks following the COVID-19 pandemic
The past 13 months have been a challenge for all of us, but at Union Health the Covid-19 pandemic provided the ultimate test for our entire staff.
As proud Wabash Valley natives who continue to call this area home, Union Health Board Chair Don “Scotty” Scott and former Union Health Board Chair Molly Callahan were afforded a unique perspective of the impact of the virus on our community, and how Union Health responded to its mission to provide “Compassionate health care of the highest quality.”
COVID-19 Vaccine
Watch: COVID-19 Vaccinations Begin at Union Health
Watch: 10,000th Vaccine
On Thursday, February 4, Union Health administered its 10,000th COVID-19 vaccine.
What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19 are typically mild and begin gradually. The symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Dry cough and/or shortness of breath
Some people infected with the virus do not show symptoms or feel sick. Most people recover (feel better) without needing special treatment. Older people and those with existing medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems, or diabetes are more likely to develop more serious symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I protect myself and my family from getting COVID-19?
There is currently no vaccine to prevent the virus, so the best way to prevent the illness is to avoid exposure and use everyday preventative actions as well as
these steps provided by the Indiana Department of Health. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends the following measures to prevent the spread of illness:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water (or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content) for a minimum of 20 seconds
- Keep a distance of at least six (6) feet between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (e.g. use tissue that you then immediately throw away or cough into your elbow)
- Clean and disinfect commonly used items and high-touch surfaces (e.g. counters, doorknobs, phones, keyboards, toilets, etc.) every day
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Keep up to date on the latest information from reputable resources like the WHO, CDC, or the Indiana State Department of Health
If these measures seem familiar it’s because they are similar to the same precautions you should take to reduce your risk of becoming sick with the flu.
Watch: Hand-washing tips
What should I do if I think I have COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?
Stay home except for medical appointments. People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. This means that you should restrict activities outside your home, except for medical care. Do not go to work, school, or public areas, and you should avoid public transportation while sick.
If you have a medical appointment, call your healthcare provider ahead of time and tell them that you have or that you may have COVID-19. This will help your healthcare provider’s office to take steps to take precautions to keep other people from being exposed or getting sick.
When should I see a doctor?
If you are experiencing any of the COVID-19 symptoms and have possibly been exposed to the virus, you should contact your healthcare provider. Before your appointment, call ahead to let your provider know if you’ve recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread and which symptoms you have developed.
WATCH: COVID-19 Testing now available at UMG Downtown
What should I do if I have been diagnosed with COVID-19?
Stay home except for medical appointments. People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. This means that you should restrict activities outside your home, except for medical care. Do not go to work, school, or public areas, and you should avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis while sick.
Stay away from others as much as possible, including in your home. Try to stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home.
Avoid sharing personal household items, and wash items thoroughly after use with soap and water.
View a full list of steps to take when you are sick from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Business Strategy Session with Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce
On Friday, March 20 the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business Strategy Session with Union Health physicians Randy Stevens, MD, and Jackie Holder, DO.
On Tuesday, May 19, the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, partnered with Terre Haute Regional Hospital physician and Vigo County Health Commissioner Dr. Darren Brucken, along with Union Health physicians Dr. Randy Stevens and Dr. Jackie Holder for the second virtual COVID-19 information session.