(KLZA)-- COVID-19 is on the mind of everyone. 

The coronavirus pandemic has caused most persons and families to alter the way they live their everyday lives.

Of a major concern in recent weeks was the lack of available tests to determine if a person has COVID-19.  Dr. Alyssa Finck with Family Medicine Clinic in Falls City and vice-chief of staff at Community Medical Center tells MSC News that the situation has improved in the past week or so with more tests available locally.  Currently those being tested are hospitalized or are at a higher risk due to medical history.

At the time of our interview Friday,  there had been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Falls City or Richardson County. Dr. Finck said that does not necessarily means there are no local cases. There are some tests still pending and she said it is safest to assume it is probably present and we all continue to practice the safety measures lined out by the Centers for Disease Control. 

The classic symptoms of COVID-19 are a fever of 100.4 or greater,  a cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and aching.  Recently, reports are indicating other symptoms including loss of taste and smell,  vomiting and diarrhea.

If you suspect you have the virus,  Dr. Finck recommends if  you have mild symptoms, you should continue to stay home and isolate yourself from others until fully recovered.  Fully recovered means fever free for 72 hours without any fever reducing medication, symptoms have resolved and you are at least seven days past your first symptom. 

Currently there is no FDA approved treatment for COVID-19 so treatments are aimed at the symptoms using Tylenol,  and over-the-counter cough and cold medications and staying well hydrated.   

If you have questions it is suggested you contact your local primary care office before you go to the office.  Community Medical Center also has a text and email lines for questions and the State Department of Health has a hotline where you can get your questions answered.

The hospital text line is 402-245-6522.
The email address is covid19@mcfc.org.
The State COVID information line is 402-553-6645 and is manned 8:00 A.M. To 8:00 P.M. 7 days a week.