COVID-19 is a disease caused by a novel coronavirus, which is part of a family of viruses that includes everything from the common cold to SARS and MERS. COVID-19 can be spread from person to person, and it may be possible to contract it by coming into contact with a surface that has been exposed to the virus. The incubation period from exposure to illness ranges from two to fourteen days. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu, and can include fever, cough, diarrhea, and fatigue.
There are currently several FDA-approved vaccines for COVID-19 that demonstrate promising results. However, until they are widely available to all segments of the population, the best defense remains practicing preventative measures:
- Wash your hands often, using soap and water, for at least 20 seconds each time. If soap and water are not available, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Disinfect and clean frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Please stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then properly dispose of the tissue to prevent the spread of infection.
The Texas Skin Surgery Center is closely monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, and we will keep you informed and make adjustments as needed during this unprecedented situation.
The health and safety of our patients, staff, and community are our top priority, and we are taking strict precautions to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission as our commitment to keeping everyone safe.
- If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, we ask that you do not visit our office and see your primary care physician or healthcare provider for further instructions.
- Please plan on attending your appointment with us as a single individual under most circumstances. For safety reasons, family members accompanying patients to an appointment will be asked to wait in their cars or outside the office. Our staff will remain in contact with that individual as necessary. Exceptions are made for legal guardians of minors or individuals with a disability and their caretakers.
- For everyone's safety, all patients, visitors, and staff are asked to wear a face mask or face covering the entire time you are at our office.
- Please adhere to social distancing guidelines and remain six feet apart from others.
- All patients will be pre-screened for symptoms and possible COVID-19 exposure before entering our office.
- Temperature checks will be conducted on patients undergoing select procedures.
- Hand sanitizers are available throughout the office.
- We are using enhanced cleaning procedures for all exam rooms, waiting areas, restrooms, countertops, and equipment throughout the day.
- If applicable, please bring all necessary and completed paperwork with you to your visits, minimizing the time needed to do so in our office.
As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic together, we thank you for your understanding and support in helping keep our patients, staff, and community safe.
