If you are experiencing any breathing difficulties, shortness of breath or chest pain, call 911 before going to a hospital and tell them that you think you may have COVID-19 or you tested positive for the disease, if that is the case.
Do you have symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or do you have COVID-19?
If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, cough, mild breathing problems, extreme fatigue or the sudden loss of taste or smell without nasal congestion, stay a home, self-isolate and call the government hotline at 1-877-644-4545 for further instructions. If your condition worsens and you are concerned about your shortness of breath, call 911.
If you have COVID-19 and you are worried about your health, call the government hotline at 1-877-644-4545; they will connect you to the appropriate resource.
How to manage symptoms of COVID-19
Rest
First of all, you should rest if you have COVID-19. Common symptoms of the disease are fatigue and weakness.
Hydration
It’s important to stay hydrated because COVID-19 can cause a fever that leads to fluid loss, namely through sweat. If you are thirsty, you are probably dehydrated. You can also tell if you’re hydrated enough by the colour of your urine. It should be pale yellow, like lemonade. If it is dark yellow, you should drink more fluids.
Alcohol and caffeine can cause mild dehydration and more frequent urination. Drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverages.
Medication
Some medications can help you to relieve your symptoms, but you should talk to your pharmacist before using them.
For more information, please read the COVID-19 Self-Care Guide published by the Government of Québec’s Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux.
Can a vaccine protect us from COVID-19?
Yes. A vaccine against COVID-19 was approved by Health Canada in December 2020. Vaccination is already underway for persons who are most at risk of developing complications from COVID-19. These groups are considered a priority.
Further details regarding the vaccination of the general public shall follow in 2021.
For more information regarding the vaccine, visit the Government of Québec website.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and Accès pharma affiliated pharmacist-owners cannot be held responsible for this information. The information was true and accurate at the time of publication, but it is subject to change.
