Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that can cause either mild illness, such as a cold, or can make people sick with pneumonia. The COVID-19 coronavirus is a new virus.
You may have heard that there are new “variants” of the coronavirus. Viruses can change over time which cause variants. We are still learning more, but these variants seem to spread more easily and quickly. The best way to stop spread and prevent getting any type of COVID-19 is to practice all of the same safety precautions: getting vaccinated, practicing social distancing, using face coverings, washing your hands, and staying home as much as possible.
The symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you have a fever or cough, please call us or use MyChart. If you have shortness of breath, call 911.
People who are most at risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are those who have health conditions including:
If you have one of these conditions, take extra precautions and call us if you notice any symptoms.
Contact your nearest health center
Call your health center if you have symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath. If you call first, we can prepare so we can take care of you and so it is less likely you will pass any illness to others. If you have difficulty breathing, call 911.
Contact your nearest health center
New York needs everyone to do their part to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Follow these steps to stay healthy:
What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and variants of COVID-19:
1. Get vaccinated
2. Wear a face covering
3. Wash your hands
To find testing near you, visit: coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you. For additional testing sites in New York City, including mobile testing sites, visit: nyc.gov/covidtest.
For questions about COVID-19 testing, call the New York State COVID-19 Hotline at 1-888-364-3065 or visit the NYSDOH website: covid19screening.health.ny.gov. You can also ask your Institute provider about COVID-19 testing at your next in-person or telehealth visit.
“Test & Trace” is an initiative to stop COVID-19 infections in New York City. This initiative helps to test New Yorkers of all backgrounds. If you test positive, pay attention to your phone. You’ll receive a call from a Tracer who will determine if you need more medical attention, help you isolate at home or at a free hotel, and create a list of who you had contact with shortly before your symptoms started.
For more information on Test & Trace, visit: www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/get-tested/test-trace-corps.page.
At-home tests are now more widely available. Read more for information on free and low-cost at-home tests. If you completed an at-home test and tested positive, here’s what you should do.
Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine
If you have symptoms for COVID-19, please call us or use MyChart before you visit your health center. If you call first, we can prepare so we can take care of you and so it is less likely you will pass any illness to others. Call your health center if you have symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath. If you have difficulty breathing, call 911.
Remember that it’s important to get the care you need, especially if you have a chronic condition. Your health care team can help you decide if you can be seen through telehealth or need an in-person visit. For example, if you are pregnant or have a child who needs a physical exam, you may need to schedule an in-person visit.
To schedule a telehealth appointment, use MyChart or call your health center. Behavioral health care is currently available through video or phone only.
To schedule an in-person appointment, call your health center. New patients can call (844) 434-2778. Scheduling in-person appointments through MyChart will be available again soon.
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