Arkansas Department of Health

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COVID-19 Guidance for High Risk Individuals

We here at ADH want to keep you informed regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Specifically, we want to inform you about considerations for high risk individuals.

Older adults and those with serious chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. Older adults, and those with serious chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease tend to have lower immunity and can see worsening of their health condition. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends some important measures these individuals can take to reduce the risk of getting sick with the disease, as listed below.

• Make sure you have sufficient supplies, especially medications for chronic medical conditions.
• Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra necessary medications to have on hand in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time.
• If you cannot get extra medications, consider using mail-order for medications.
• Be sure you have over-the-counter medicines and medical supplies (tissues, etc.).
• Have enough household items and groceries on hand to be prepared to stay at home for a period of time.
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.
• When in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash hands often.
• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.
• If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.
• Watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Call your health care provider’s office if you have these symptoms.
• Watch for emergency warning signs for COVID-19 to get medical attention immediately, especially difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face. If any call your health care provider or 911 to get help to reach the hospital emergency room.

The Arkansas Department of Health is also working diligently with health care providers across the state to educate and inform them about the needs of patients at high risk and how to address them.