What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by a coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that may cause illness in people. The name of this new respiratory disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Symptoms may also include chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or sense of smell. These symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. This list is not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider about any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

How dangerous is this virus?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention* (CDC), COVID-19 can affect anyone and can cause symptoms ranging from mild to very severe. People with risk factors and underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, may be more likely to need hospitalization if they have COVID-19.

How is the virus passed from one person to another?

Someone who is actively infected with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others, even if he or she has no symptoms.

The virus spreads from one person to another through respiratory droplets. These droplets are produced when someone with the illness coughs, sneezes or talks. The droplets can be inhaled, land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, and persist for up to a couple of days on some surfaces. It generally takes close contact (less than 6 feet away) to become infected.

How can I prevent the spread of the coronavirus or other respiratory viruses?

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. To limit virus exposure, the CDC recommends you:

• Maintain good social distance (at least 6 feet) from others and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when around others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place; after going to the bathroom; before eating or preparing food; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. 
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

What should I do if I may have been exposed to or think I am sick with COVID-19?

If you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as a cough or difficulty breathing, or if you have been in close contact with a person sick with COVID-19, contact your doctor before you attempt to see anyone in person. You can tell your health care provider your symptoms, and he or she can give you instructions on how to get your medical needs addressed while minimizing the risk of exposure to yourself and others.

There currently is no cure for this virus, so managing mild symptoms at home may be your best option to prevent further spread of the disease. Of course, should you have life-threatening symptoms, such as trouble breathing, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If possible, put on a face mask before seeking emergency medical care.

What kind of support does BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina offer?

If you have questions about getting care during the pandemic, using your benefits or managing your health, we are here to help you. You may be contacted by BlueCross to introduce programs that are right for you. To reach us, simply call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card.