Coronavirus Q&A with Lake County’s top health officer – nwitimes.com

That makes it all the more critical that symptomatic people stay home, avoid close contact and rest to prevent the spread of coronavirus, said Lake County’s health officer, Dr. Chandana Vavilala, a primary care physician.

Vavilala said sick people should wash their hands regularly with soap and warm water for 20 seconds; clip their nails close to the skin; cover their mouth when coughing; and avoid touching their own face.

They also should isolate as much as possible within the home — such as using a separate bathroom, she said.

Most of the people with mild symptoms are advised to stay home until they recover, she said. 

“They usually recover with supportive care, and testing them will not change their treatment plan or impact their recovery. If symptoms worsen, they should contact their doctor, who may advise testing depending the symptoms,” she said.

Testing has ramped up considerably statewide, from only 12 tested as of March 6 to more than 4,650 total tested as of Thursday.

But local health officials say there still is not enough testing — at least yet — for everyone who experiences symptoms.