Helpful Information about the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

COVID-19 is a new virus strain that is believed to spread in similar ways as the common cold, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, body ache, chills, new loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, congestion and runny nose. A health care provider can give you instructions for seeking care, which you can do without exposing others.

Hoag clinicians are following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and we have strong infection control policies, procedures and systems in place. As recommended by the CDC, our clinicians are screening all patients for fever and COVID-19 symptoms. Anyone meeting the CDC-established criteria would be isolated and further testing and care will be guided by the health department.

How to Protect Yourself

Feeling Sick? Stay Home
social distance
Social Distancing
Keep Hands Clean
Avoid Touching Face
Clean Surfaces
Wear a Face Mask

Face Mask Basics

  • Clean hands before and after touching mask
  • Wear inside facing you and metal piece pressed onto nose bridge
  • Avoid touching mask
  • Remove and store mask before eating or drinking
  • Mask should always cover nose and chin
  • Mask should not hang on one ear, hang around neck or be pushed to forehead
  • Discard if mask becomes wet or soiled
  • Store mask safely in a clean dry area

Signs and Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Sore throat
  • Body Ache
  • Chills
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Congestion
  • Runny Nose

What to do if you suspect you have COVID-19

  • If you or a loved one are experiencing the symptoms listed above, it is important to give advanced notice before visiting a health care facility.
  • Stay home if you believe you have been exposed to the virus, even if you are not showing any symptoms, and contact your health care provider.
  • If you are experiencing mild symptoms, please stay home, self-quarantine, and follow prevention measures to avoid infecting others.
  • If you are experiencing worsening symptoms, call your primary care physician before you go to a facility. If you don’t have a primary care physician, contact one of our 13 Hoag Urgent Care locations to make a reservation for an in-person or telehealth visit. You will be provided with further instructions at that time.
  • Whether you have seasonal flu, the common cold, or something else, it’s important you stay away from others when sick..
  • The Orange County Health Care Agency is taking questions from the public regarding COVID-19 via the Health Referral Line at 800-564-8448, daily from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • If you are experiencing life-threatening, severe symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Stay Centered While Staying Home

In these uncertain times, Hoag continues to provide compassionate care for our community. This time at home can be a great time of healing and personal enrichment.

For ideas and helpful links on how to stay centered while at home, please download the attached flyer.

Stay Informed

The CDC has the most current information about the virus, including everything you need to know about how the virus spreads, how it’s treated, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you get sick. Stay on top of the latest news by visiting the following websites, which are being updated frequently.