Call your doctor or county health department for advice if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have developed symptoms, such as fever, coughing, and/or difficulty breathing. Remember, you can recover from the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Improving Your COVID-19 Knowledge
COVID-19 Symptoms
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) have developed a list of symptoms to watch for.
Symptoms range from mild to severe and include:
- Fever
- Coughing
- Shortness of Breath and/or Difficulty Breathing
- Chills and Repeated Shaking with Chills
- Muscle Pain
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- New Loss of Taste or Smell
Children may experience all of the symptoms listed above as well as:
- Diarrhea
- Nasal Congestion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Poor Appetite
The CDC has also developed emergency warning signs that require immediate medical attention such as:
- Trouble Breathing
- Persistent Pain or Pressure in the Chest
- New Confusion or Disorientation
- Bluish Lips or Face
Symptoms for Coronavirus Disease 2019 by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)
For more information about COVID-19 refer to What you should know about COVID-19 to protect yourself and others.
To help you talk to young children about COVID-19 refer to Manuela Molinares' COVIBOOK and How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus at PBS.org. If you have older children refer to the comic strip Just For Kids: A Comic Exploring The New Coronavirus the social narrative Let's Talk About the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Please consult your doctor or medical health department regarding anyother symptom that is severe or concerning. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 and notify the operator that you think you may have COVID-19.
COVID-19 Testing Information
Notice: COVID-19 can incubate in the body for up to 14 days. If you or anyone you know is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 please contact the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade at 305-324-2400 or the COVID-19 Call Center available 24/7 at 1-866-779-6121 or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
Should I get tested?
- YES, if you experience symptoms and think you were exposed or have been in contact with someone who is COVID-19 positive
- YES, if you are over the age of 65 and develop symptoms
- YES, if you have an underlying condition (lung disease, asthma, heart condition, severe obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease)
- YES, if you are a first responder with symptoms
If you live in Miami-Dade County, refer to the Miami-Dade County COVID-19 Community-Based Testing Sites.
If you develop symptoms and choose to go to the closest emergency room, contact the emergency department in advance and let them know you that think you may have COVID-19, this will help stop the spread.
The Spread of COVID-19
How does COVID-19 spread?
- Spread occurs from person to person and mainly when people are in close contact with one another (closer than 6 feet). When a person who is infected coughs, sneezes, or talks they release droplets from their nose or mouth into the air. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of other people or make their way into their lungs.
- People who are infected with coronavirus and do not show symptoms can also spread the virus to others.
- COVID-19 can also live for hours or days, it is possible to be exposed to the virus if you touch an infected surface and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. Learn How to Protect Yourself and Others.
STAY HOME if you are sick to protect yourself and protect others.
Stop the Spread of COVID-19
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus, how do you avoid being exposed? Stay Home As Much As Possible.
Stay Home As Much As Possible
If you have to go out in PUBLIC consider this:
- TIP #1
- TIP #2
Maintain a Social Distance
Social Distanceis a "physical distancing" or space between 2 people of at least 6 feet. Stay away from crowded places and do not gather in groups.
Cover your Nose and Mouth
Is it recommended to use a cloth face cover, however, children under the age of 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone unable to remove the covering without assistance should not use a face cover. For more information about how to talk to children about face covers read Why are people wearing masks? Why are people covering their faces?
If you are at HOME remember this:
If you think that you or someone in your home might have been exposed to COVID-19 but don’t have symptoms, stay away from others, limit movement, and self-quarantinefor 14 days.
If you or someone in your home has tested positive for COVID-19 separate from others in the home. Only one adult should look after this person. This person should stay in a separate space, keep doors closed, and use a different bathroom if possible. If you have to share a common area, the sick person should wear a face mask, those areas must be disinfected after use, and things like towels and utensils must be kept separate. For more details read Prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
What You Need To Know About Handwashing by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)
For more information refer to Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives.
Clean and Disinfect often frequently touched surfaces (tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, phones, keyboards, sinks, faucets, handles, toilets). Use detergent or soap and water to first clean surfaces and then use a disinfectant. Refer to Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Home for more details.
COVID-19 Calendar of Events
