As more New Yorkers show symptoms of the coronavirus, NYC Health + Hospitals is offering this guidance for those who think they have been exposed. If you suspect you have COVID-19, or another virus, please follow these steps to safely monitor your symptoms at home, know when to seek care, and find out where to get tested in your community..
Unless you are severely ill, avoid going to the Emergency Room or Doctor’s Office to limit exposure to other patients and health care workers. If you feel sick, stay home and call your health care provider.
If you have symptoms for more than 3 or 4 days, call 311 for immediate advice. If needed, you will be connected to a clinician who will help determine if you need to seek treatment, or if you should stay home and continue to monitor your symptoms to prevent exposure to others.
If you may have come in contact with a person who is sick, you will likely be asked to self-isolate or schedule a time for further evaluation. Most cases of the virus involve mild and moderate symptoms of fever and cough and can be safely managed at home.
Call 911 is you are having trouble breathing or any other symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
If You Have a Scheduled Appointment
We encourage all New Yorkers, particularly the elderly and people with chronic health conditions, to stay home, limit travel and exposure to the virus. NYC Health + Hospitals is postponing most elective surgeries and procedures.
If you have a scheduled appointment for a routine check-up or other non-emergency care, we encourage you to have a telephonic visit with a provider. Contact your NYC Health + Hospitals provider directly or call us at 1-844-NYC-4NYC (1-844-692-4692).
View the Stop the Spread of Coronavirus flyer.