Please refer to the specific Chimes location for program-related information. Below is general information about COVID-19.
How can I determine if my symptoms are allergies, a cold, the flu, or COVID-19?
Information for Direct Support Staff and Families of People We Support
The National Association of Direct Support Professionals and the Centers for Disease Control have prepared a fact sheet to help you minimize your risk of exposure from others and to minimize the risk of exposing others. Click here to view or download the fact sheet.
How to Protect Yourself
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw it in the trash. Immediately wash your hands or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
How do I know the difference between a cold, allergies, flu and COVID-19.
- Cold or allergy symptoms typically include itchy eyes, stuffy nose, and sneezing.
- Flu or coronavirus symptoms include fever, fatigue, body aches, cough, and worsening symptoms.
- Coronavirus symptoms may also include shortness of breath. The individual will often have a history of recent international travel and/or exposure to someone testing positive for the virus.
I Think I Have COVID-19. What should I do?
The Centers for Disease Control recommends the following if you think you have been exposed to or have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19:
- Stay home. People who have mild symptoms are instructed to isolate themselves at home.
- Avoid public areas. Do not go to work or school.
- Do not use any form of public transportation including buses, ride-sharing or taxis.
- Stay away from others in your home and use a separate bathroom if possible to limit their exposure.
- Limit contact with pets/animals. It is still unknown if COVID-19 affects animals.
- Don’t share personal household items like dishes, glasses, utensils, towels, and bedding. Wash these items thoroughly with soap and water after use.
- Clean and disinfect “high touch” areas frequently.
- Monitor your symptoms and contact your health care provider if your symptoms worsen. Be sure to tell the provider if you have, or are being evaluated for, COVID-19.
What else can I do to be prepared?
State health departments advise taking these measures in the event
- Keep basic health supplies on hand including pain relievers, cough, cold and stomach medications, and a thermometer.
- Refill prescription medications if necessary.
- Have an adequate supply of tissues, soap and hand sanitizer.
- Chimes also recommends that you keep a supply of anything that is comforting and entertaining (ie: favorite foods, games) should the need arise to modify schedules and people are home together for a period of time.
Links to Additional Official COVID-19 Information Resources for Chimes Locations
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
District of Columbia Department of Health
New Jersey Department of Health
North Carolina Department of Health
Pennsylvania Department of Health
