3/14/2020

Families,

Cornerstone Pediatrics would like to give an update on how our office is preparing for the impact of Coronavirus-COVID19 within our community. Our highest priority is the health and wellbeing of our patients and their families. In an effort to empower you during these times of uncertainty, we are providing some key information.

We have already taken steps to help limit the spread of the virus including increasing cleaning measures, removing all toys, books and magazines from the waiting room, requiring online check-in prior to appointments and asking that families limit the number of adults bringing children to the office. We continue to monitor recommendations locally and nationally, and will adjust as these events occur.

Starting on Friday, March 13, we began separating sick children from well children - both in the waiting room and in the office. Half of our exam rooms will be utilized only for well visits. We will keep patient flow separate at check in and at check out. We hope that this will limit the potential contact between these groups.

Children are less likely to develop a severe infection from COVID-19. If your child has a fever and cough, but has not been exposed to someone who has traveled outside the country within the past 14 days (specifically China/South Korea, Japan/Italy/Iran) OR to a positive COVID-19 patient, it is unlikely that your child has COVID-19. While there have been cases reported in Ohio, the likelihood that your child came in contact with that person is extremely low.

Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:

• Any fever (>100.4F)
• Cough
• Respiratory distress including shortness of breath

Currently, we are not testing for COVID-19 in our offices, and most hospitals are not testing unless there is a known exposure or travel history. There is no need to wear a mask, unless instructed to do so by a physician. If you believe you or your child have been exposed, please call 1-833-427-5634 (1-833-4ASKODH).

CDC's testing guidance includes three types of people:

1. Those who have symptoms such as fever OR lower respiratory symptoms (cough or shortness of breath) and have had "close contact" with a confirmed coronavirus patient within 14 days of their first symptoms.
2. Those who have fever AND lower respiratory symptoms, require hospitalization, and have traveled to areas impacted by the epidemic in the last 14 days.
3. Patients with fever and severe acute lower respiratory symptoms who require hospitalization and for whom no other diagnosis has been found – such as the flu. No travel or contact exposure is needed.
4. Everyday steps you can take to keep your family healthy:
   • Wash your hands (don’t forget the dominant thumb) for at least 20 seconds
   • Cover your cough with the bend of your arm
   • Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces
   • Remind your children to not share food or beverages
   • Stay calm

As always, call us if you have any questions. 937-885-4475

Greg Eberhart M.D.
Craig Chalfie M.D.