Friday, March 13, 2020
Beaumont COVID-19 hotline provides community with timely, accurate information
Confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, are increasing statewide and across Southeast Michigan.
Beaumont Health Chief Nursing Officer Susan Grant, RN, said, “Our team is prepared for an increase in COVID-19 cases. During this outbreak, we continue to serve and care for the needs of all our patients whether they are giving birth, needing surgery or requiring lifesaving emergency procedures.”
While presently, there is no vaccine or prescription medications to prevent or cure the virus, according to the World Health Organization, 80% of people who contract COVID-19 recover without requiring hospitalization.
“Many of those who develop COVID-19 can self-treat at home with lots of fluids, rest and over-the-counter medications, like pain relievers,” explained Dr. Nick Gilpin, Beaumont Health’s medical director of Infection Prevention and Epidemiology. “Older adults with underlying health concerns or those with a compromised immune system who suspect they might be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their doctor.”
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Beaumont now offers the community a COVID-19 hotline, 800-592-4784, staffed by Beaumont nurses seven days a week. The hotline is a community resource for timely, accurate information about COVID-19 symptoms and virtual screening for people who are experiencing symptoms.
Beaumont nurses and staff will answer questions about the virus and direct patients to the appropriate level of care including:
- Treating symptoms at home.
- Following up with a primary doctor.
- Seeking treatment at an urgent care or emergency center.
Please do not call the hotline unless you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, please call 911.