Note: for the latest updates and news from a variety of sources, see the section at the end of this page labeled “Latest News and Information”
Pegasus Home Health Care is committed to keeping patients and employees safe and healthy. We have specific procedures in place for staff and patients to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
What is the difference between coronavirus and COVID-19?
Coronavirus is a term for a group of viruses. Four types of coronavirus cause the common cold. COVID-19 is a disease caused by a coronavirus.
Who is at risk from COVID-19?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people at high risk for developing a more serious case of COVID-19 are older adults and those with chronic medical conditions like heart, lung, or kidney disease.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of COVID-19 include a fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The CDC believes that symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure. Mild cases may seem like a cold or a lower respiratory illness, such as a bronchitis.
In those with weakened immune systems, including people with chronic illness and the elderly, the virus can cause severe symptoms. These may include difficulty breathing and high fever, and may lead to pneumonia or other severe infections.
What should I do if I think I might have COVID-19?
The most important thing is to stay calm. Remember, you are living in an area with the best health care systems in the world. If you develop a fever, cough, or other signs you may have COVID-19 infection, you should immediately contact your doctor and/or local medical center to discuss whether you should get tested for the virus.
If you develop symptoms while receiving services from Pegasus Home Health Care or Pegasus Personal Care, please notify our office immediately: (800) 551-1939
What can I do to avoid catching COVID-19?
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick (stay at least six feet away if possible).
- Please note that the CDC is advising individuals to stay home when you are sick, particularly if you are experiencing the symptoms of potential COVID-19 infection as described above: fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
- Avoid shaking hands, hugging, or kissing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
- Use social distancing and avoid large gatherings with more than 200 people
What is Pegasus doing to keep patients, plan members, and the community safe?
- Screening. We are screening our employees and patients for possible exposure to COVID-19 and are working with hospital partners to screen any patients with possible signs of COVID-19. In addition, any staff who have returned from areas with high COVID-19 infection rates are required to self-quarantine for up to 14 days.
- Education. All staff have been trained in minimizing the chances of their becoming infected with COVID-19 and transmitting infection to those they care for, as well as in identifying the symptoms, safety, and screening practices.
- Communication. Pegasus Home Health Care has activated its Emergency Response System to provide the most up-to-date information to staff.
- Collaboration. We are working closely with the hospital systems, physicians and the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, in addition to state and federal agencies to make sure our procedures and guidelines reflect the most current medical information.
Latest News and Information
For More Information
This is a rapidly changing situation. For updates, please see these resource pages from the California Department of Health, Los Angeles County Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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