SACRAMENTO, Calif. — ABC10 is working to bring you facts, not fear in our coronavirus coverage. You can text us your questions at 916-321-3310.
Here are some of the most common questions ABC10 viewers have asked concerning the coronavirus pandemic:
Q: If I don’t have health insurance, can I get tested for coronavirus?
Yes, according to the Federal Health Insurance Exchange. If you have a need and suspect you have the coronavirus you should contact your local health authorities and/or any doctor and they can direct you to where these lab tests are being provided. This is based on a Q&A with Danielle Roberts of boomerbenefits.com who answered viewer questions about health insurance during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Q: Is it safe to get my mail .. USPS .. postal service package?
The USPS says it's taking some steps to be safe. You can find out more here.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says, "The likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package that has been moved, traveled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low."
Read more from the WHO here.
Q: Can we treat it at home, if so, how?
While some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms, there is no evidence that current medicine can prevent or cure the disease. WHO does not recommend self-medication with any medicines, including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for the coronavirus.
Q: Is COVID-19 airborne?
The coronavirus can last up to 30 minutes in the air. More info here.
The main way it's thought to spread is from person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes and between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
To learn more, check out our recent show.
Q: Can the coronavirus be transmitted by mosquitoes?
To date, there has been no information nor evidence to suggest that the new coronavirus could be transmitted by mosquitoes.
For more information visit the World Health Organization website here.
Q: Can I leave my house to help my elderly parent or friend?
Yes, the state says, "Be sure that you protect them and yourself by following social distancing guidelines such as washing hands before and after, using hand sanitizer, maintaining at least six feet of distance when possible, and coughing or sneezing into your elbow or a tissue and then washing your hands. If you have early signs of a cold, please stay away from your older loved ones."
More information here.
Q: What can I do if I'm worried about my bills? (mortgage, etc).
Here's a resource that might be helpful.
Q: Can pets get it? Dogs, cats?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says, "In the United States, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time. However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals."
More information is here.
Continue the conversation with Zach on Facebook.
Read more about coronavirus from ABC10:
- Non-profit launches domestic violence chat hotline early due to coronavirus response
- Some school districts help facilitate distance learning for families lacking computers, wifi
- 'Our safety isn't a huge concern' | Restoration Hardware worker calls out company over fears of coronavirus
- Sacramento police raise funds to buy elderly man groceries amid coronavirus pandemic
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