At Tufts Medical Center, we are closely following the spread of the respiratory disease COVID-19 that originated in Wuhan, China. The situation, however, is changing rapidly. To ensure you have the latest information, click the links below:
Visitor policy:
Due to COVID-19, we have changed our visitor policy. For adult patients, no visitors are allowed at this time. For pediatric patients, one immediate family member is allowed. We are sorry for the inconvenience. Our priority is the safety of all patient and staff. Learn more >
When Should We See a Doctor?
When a new virus is circulating in the community, it is understandable that you might be more nervous than usual if you begin to experience symptoms of a respiratory illness. Know that the majority of people infected with Coronavirus COVID-19 do just fine. Even with COVID-19 having been detected in the Boston area, most people with cold and flu symptoms (including fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat and cough) do not need to see their doctor or need to be tested for COVID-19. Rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications for symptom control are usually all that is needed. For more detailed information about warning signs that should prompt a call or visit to the doctor for a respiratory infection, click here.
What is Tufts Medical Center doing to prepare for COVID-19?
The safety and wellbeing of our patients, families and employees are of utmost importance to Tufts Medical Center. As a world-class academic medical center, our staff is well-trained in managing respiratory illness, has adequate supplies and is ready to care for anyone with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19.
What are symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough and shortness of breath and
- In severe cases, pneumonia (fluid in the lungs)
- Loss of smell or taste
Note that influenza (the flu) has similar symptoms and is common at this time of year.
How do I get tested if I am experiencing symptoms?
If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your primary care doctor.
How do I prevent getting sick?
There are no vaccines or antiviral treatments available to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infections is to avoid exposure. To that end, the CDC recommends:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth especially when out in public.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Get your flu shot. Your risk of a serious complication from influenza is many times higher than your risk from novel coronavirus
Special instructions for transplant patients, those taking biological and other immunocompromised patients >
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