With the COVID-19 strain of coronavirus making headlines across the world, Lee Health wants to answer your questions and keep you healthy.

A few key things to know:

• There are seven known coronaviruses that can affect humans, and four of them are relatively common and cause cold-like symptoms. Just because someone is diagnosed with coronavirus, that does not mean it is the COVID-19 strain.
• Handwashing remains both the simplest and most effective way to curb the spread of infectious disease. The CDC’s websitecontains information on the proper handwashing techniques. While not as effective as handwashing, hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol can be used when soap and water is not available.
• Utilizing telemedicine to directly speak to a doctor or advanced provider about your symptoms and travel history is a convenient alternative to risking additional exposure in an emergency room physician office setting. The fee has been discounted to $29 through March.
• Lee Telehealth can be accessed at this link: org

Lee Health has a robust public health awareness webpage to provide the Southwest Florida community with the latest updates on COVID-19 and how they can help prevent the spread of the virus. The webpage can be accessed through the home page on leehealth.org or directly by visiting our public health page.

The webpage contains vital information for the community, including sections on the basics of COVID-19, prevention, Lee Health’s preparedness and important updates from the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). The webpage aims to clear up the many misconceptions about COVID-19 while also providing the most up-to-date information.

Lee Health officials are ready at every location – including at Lee Health Coconut Point — if COVID-19 makes its way into our area.