FAQ

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 is a new type of coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China in late 2019 and causes illnesses among humans.  COVID-19, abbreviated ‘CO‘ for ‘corona, ‘VI‘ for virus, ‘D‘ for ‘disease’, and ‘19‘ for 2019, may also be referred to as ‘SARS-CoV-19.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly thought to spread through human to human transmission, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes.  Spreading the virus is more likely when people are in close contact with others (within 6 feet or 2 meters).  It can also be spread by touching an infected surface (like a doorknob, desk, or sink) then touching one’s face with unwashed hands.

Generally, the symptoms include:

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Shortness of Breath
• Loss of taste/smell

However, this does not factor in people who may have it but are asymptomatic (meaning they can still pass it onto others but they have no symptoms so they do not know they have it).

The best way to prevent catching/spreading COVID-19, it is important to self-quarantine and only leave the house for essential reasons.  If you do need to leave the house, it is advised to wear a face mask and avoid touching your face until you are able to wash your hands.

It is presumed that COVID-19 can be spread through human-to-human transmission (i.e. coughing, sneezing, touching one’s face).

Currently, the most effective way to prevent getting sick or getting others sick is to stay at home.  You should only be leaving the house for groceries, important medical visitations (call your provider beforehand), tending to others in need, and if you’re considered an essential worker.

If you do need to leave your home, remember to socially distance yourself from other people (6 feet or 2 meters), wear a face mask if possible, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, wash your hands when home or hand sanitize if hand soap is not available, and sanitize frequently touched objects (i.e. door knobs, sinks, tables, etc.)

If you are unable to wash your hands, be sure that your hand sanitizer is antimicrobial and is at least 60% alcohol (i.e. Purell).

According to the CDC, not everyone should get tested for COVID-19.  For more information regarding who should get tested, click the link below:

CDC.gov

Starting immediately, Rutgers IDP can now virtually meet with patients through video or telephone visits, also known as ‘Telemedicine’.  The majority of our visits will be conducted virtually, and in-person visits will be very limited and will only be scheduled on an as needed basis.

Here is what you should expect:

1. If you have an upcoming appointment, someone from the clinic will contact you to set up a telephone or video chat appointment.
2. You will get an email or text message with a link (that will look like this: https://njms.doxy.me/yourdoctorsname)
3. Click on the link on the day and time of your visit with the provider using a device with a camera (smartphone, tablet, computer)
4. You will be asked to type your name so we know who you are
5. Once you provide the information, the provider will call you.  Please note that you may have to wait a few minutes to get the phone call from the provider
6. If you do not have a phone or if your phone does not have a camera, then our staff will work with you to figure out the best way to contact you to check in on your health.

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For more information regarding COVID-19, or you would like to speak with one of our providers, you may call us at 973-972-5111.