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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How can HSCSN help me?

At HSCSN, we are making sure you receive:

  • Medical care
  • Your providers
  • Your medicines through your local pharmacy
  • Your medical supplies and equipment

We will also closely follow updates from the DC Department of Health, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

What are Coronaviruses?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

What is Coronavirus (COVID)?

The coronavirus is a new virus that has caused an outbreak of breathing problems that began in China. It spreads between people in close contact. Since December 2019, COVID has spread to other countries, including the United States.

What are the symptoms?

We are still learning more about the symptoms of COVID. A lot of symptoms linked to coronaviruses are similar to the flu. They include dry, itchy cough, fever, and trouble breathing. The coronaviruses SARS and MERS cause more severe symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath that progress to pneumonia and can be fatal.

How does the coronavirus (COVID) spread?

Currently, it is thought that COVID spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

When will someone get sick if they are exposed?

Symptoms show anywhere from 2-14 days.

How can I protect myself?

You can protect yourself by avoiding coming into contact with the virus. HSCSN recommends practicing good hygiene. To prevent this virus from spreading please:

  • Wash your hands a lot with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If it helps, sing the ABC’s.
  • Avoid being around people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces.
  • Use hand sanitizer in-between hand washing.
  • Stay at home when you feel sick.

What if I cannot self-isolate?

If you tested positive for COVID or need to be quarantined and cannot properly isolate at home, please call the DC Resource (Hotline) at 1-888-8323 for assistance, if a safe place to stay is unavailable.

Is there a vaccine for COVID?

For more information about the COVID vaccine, please visit the DC Department of Health Website. 
Please sign-up for an alert via email or text message to find out when the next vaccine appointments are available.

Should I wear a facemask to prevent COVID?

People, including children older than 2, should wear a mask in indoor public places if they are:

  • Not fully vaccinated
  • Fully vaccinated and in an area with substantial or high transmission
  • Fully vaccinated and with weakened immune systems

In general, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings.

Please review the CDC - Mask Guidelines Webpage for more information. 

Should I travel out of the United States?

The CDC requires you to be fully vaccinated before traveling outside of the United States. Please review the CDC - Coronavirus Travel Webpage for the latest on travel and important health information.