The science behind COVID-19 continues to change as scientists and doctors learn more about the disease. Right now, we know that COVID-19 is virus. Since the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) is not a bacteria, it cannot be treated effectively with anti-biotics. The best way to combat this disease, as of November 2021, is to get vaccinated and to wear a mask when you are out in public, whether you have been vaccinated or not. This can both help to protect yourself and the people around you.

Spread

COVID-19 is an airborne disease. This means the virus spreads when another person breaths, coughs, or sneezes. Another people can become ill if the virus goes into their body via their eyes, nose, or mouth. Sometimes, the virus can be spread when an infected person touches something and a healthy person touches the same object later on. According to the CDC, the COVID-19 virus can live on surfaces for up to three days. For this reason, it is important to clean the surfaces in your home often. Wash your hands, or use hand sanitizer, whenever you use objects out in public, such as a shopping cart.

Symptoms

If you are exposed to the virus, you may start to notice symptoms two days to two weeks later. One of the most common symptoms is a fever or chills. Over 90% of people who have Covid-19 get a fever, so if you do not have one, it is very unlikely that you have Covid-19. Other symptoms include cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, loss of smell, sore throat, nausea, and diarrhea. If you have these symptoms, make sure to get tested. There are a variety of Covid-19 testing locations in and around Kalamazoo. Testing is free at most testing sites, unless you are getting a rapid test. Rapid tests are usually covered by health insurance.

You can see  testing locations and interact with the map above by using this link.

Quarantine 

If you think you have Covid-19, it is best to stay at home unless you are going to the doctor’s or somewhere to get tested. Wait at home for your results. If the results are negative, you can resume your normal activities once your symptoms are gone. If you test positive, stay home for two weeks. After this period, get re-tested to see if you are cleared of the virus. If you are, return to your normal life. If you are still positive for Covid-19, stay home until a doctor says otherwise.

We ask that Covid-19 positive people do not come to church. We want to keep our congregation safe! You can still enjoy watching the service through our YouTube channel. We broadcast live videos every Sunday. You can also watch old videos on the channel. For those who are coming to church, we ask that you wear a mask, even if you have been vaccinated.

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Video

This video is sponsored by the Health Ministry Committee, Elders Dr. Bob Brush and Dr. Oliver Takuh present information about Long COVID infections.