What to do if one has fever and it is suspected to be COVID?

What to do if one has fever and it is suspected to be COVID?

      

If a person is having fever and suspected to be COVID positive, here are the initial steps to take.

• Restrict the person to one room in their home, preferably with bath attached. 
• It is better to put a table at the entrance of the room.
• Food plate should be placed on the table.
• Food should be consumed inside the room. 

Things to be kept bedside in the room are:

1. Thermometer
2. Steam inhaler
3. Hot water flask or electric kettle
4. Pulse Oximeter
5. Paracetamol 650 mg tablet
6. Cough Syrup/ lozenges
7. A bell (in case of emergency at night)

Get the test done at the earliest.

Once tested positive:

1. The patient needs to call and inform his/her physician/Residential Apartment Association/BBMP.
2. Complete rest is recommended.
3. Check temperature regularly – If temp is more than 99 F, take a paracetamol. It should not be taken more than 3-4 times a day.
4. Drink hot water. You can add a pinch of turmeric, dry ginger, black pepper powder and salt twice a day.
5. Steam inhalation with or without Karvol plus capsules is helpful and soothing.
6. Cough syrup or lozenges.
7. Check oxygen saturation levels by Pulse Oximeter every 4 hours or if you feel breathless. It should be more than 95%.
8. Sleeping on stomach or prone position is good for healthy circulation of lungs
9. Mild breathing exercises are recommended - Simply inhale deeply and count and exhale.
10. Practice Pranayama and yoga 

Medicines.

There are many antivirals and various other medications are being used depending on the person's medical condition. After full evaluation and consultation doctor will advise if you are fit for home isolation and treatment or need to be shifted to the hospital.

Avoid taking medications on your own.

Dr Shalini Joshi