Karen Clark, Ed.D., M.S.N., RN, is the dean of the Indiana University East School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Karen Clark

Clark has an extensive background in community health. In addition to academic publications and presentations, she holds offices in various professional nursing organizations including as a member of the Reid Health Governing Board, past president of the Indiana Center of Nursing board, and the president of the Board for the East-Indiana Area Health Education Center.

Q: What do people need to know about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The novel (new) coronavirus is a respiratory virus first identified in the city of Wuhan in China’s Hubei Province. It is referred to as Covid-19.

Q: What are ways to avoid getting the virus?
The best way to avoid the virus is social distancing, hand washing and surface disinfection.

The virus is spread from person to person through respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze. Maintaining a safe social distance of at least 6 feet from others is a sound prevention strategy.

Handwashing is an imperative prevention strategy. Individuals should wash hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water is not available, persons should use a 60 percent alcohol based hand sanitizer and wash hands when possible. Individuals should avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.

We know that the virus can remain on surfaces from a few hours to a few days depending on the surface. Cleaning and disinfecting of commonly used surfaces is also a sound prevention strategy. Clean counters, doorknobs, table tops, and toilet and sink handles daily with household cleaners and wipes, using product instructions.

There are lots of alternative prevention strategies being discussed on social media. There is no evidence that supports the use of actions such as drinking only hot water, drinking hot water every 15 minutes, gargling, or eating certain foods.

Q: What are some of the symptoms of COVID-19?
Covid-19 is a respiratory illness. The most frequent symptoms are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually appear within two to 14 days after exposure.

Q: How should individuals plan to take care of themselves, or a family member, if they suspect they have the virus?
Those exhibiting mild symptoms should isolate at home. Individuals with Covid-19 should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, rest, and may use over-the-counter medication to assist with symptoms.

If there are individuals in the home who have Covid-19, caution should be taken to prevent infection of others. Infected individuals should stay in a room away from others and use a separate bathroom if possible. Keeping a minimum of 6 foot distance from the infected individual is recommended for non-infected individual.

Handwashing and disinfection of common surfaces is imperative. Laundry should be washed thoroughly. If laundry is soiled, use of gloves is recommended to place the laundry in the washer.  Gloves should be removed and disposed of immediately followed by handwashing.

The physician should be contacted should symptoms worsen or to answer questions. Some areas have screening call lines that individuals who think they may be infected may call for information and assistance.

Q: How do people know when to see their physician or seek medical attention?
Individuals should contact their physician or use screening call lines for questions. If the individual is having trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or an inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, they should seek medical care immediately.

Q: What are basic steps to take – at home or in public – to avoid contracting COVID-19?
Stay home! Individuals should stay home unless absolutely necessary. Essential trips out of the home include going to work if deemed an essential business, to secure groceries/food or medication, or to seek medical care. If someone is required to be out for one of these reasons, they should maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet and wash hands often.

If using grocery carts, disinfect handles before use. Folks should wash hands/use sanitizer as soon as possible after being out. Touching the face should be avoided until hands are washed.

Q: Where can I get additional information about the novel coronavirus?
Please look for additional information from credible sources such as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov ) or your state health department/state government ( in.gov).