This news item expired on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
It is important that everyone in our community take steps to reduce the impact and spread of COVID-19. The safety of our neighbors, family, and friends is protected when all of us practice physical distancing, eliminate all unnecessary travel outside the home, and stay home when you are sick. Employing these strategies is the best way to manage the spread of COVID-19 in Buncombe County and our region. But what should you do if you are sick or unsure about whether you have COVID-19?
We know that COVID-19 is spreading through our community and have shut down all Buncombe County Health and Human Services testing sites. We did this because a positive test result does not change the course of the virus. Most people who get COVID-19 will recover without needing medical care. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home if you have mild symptoms – such as fever and cough without shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Some people are at higher risk of getting very sick with COVID-19. People at higher risk should call their doctor if they develop symptoms of fever or cough. You are at higher risk if you:
• Are 65 years and older
• Live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
• Have a high-risk condition that includes:
- Chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- Heart disease with complications
- Compromised immune system
- Severe obesity — body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
- Other underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease.
People who are pregnant should be monitored since they are known to be at risk for severe viral illness. However, to date, data on COVID-19 has not shown increased risk for severe illness.
Call your doctor or 911 right away if you have:
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion
• Blue lips
To learn more about testing, self isolation, and what other states are doing to address the spread of COVID-19, check out the factsheet below.
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Buncombe County, visit buncombecounty.org. To get emergency notifications sent straight to your phone, sign up for CodeRED.