Information from the Autism Society 

What is COVID-19? 

• It is a new illness spreading around the world.  

• Its nickname is coronavirus. 

How do you get it? 

• Someone with COVID-19 gives you their germs. 

• When they cough or sneeze, their germs get in the air, on you, and on things.  

• Germs get into your body through your mouth, nose and your eyes. 

What happens if you have it? 

• A fever of 100.4 degrees or higher 

• Coughing 

• Hard time breathing 

• If these things happen to you, it does not mean you have coronavirus. Lots of people get a fever or cough. You could just have a cold or the flu.  

If I am sick, when should I call a doctor? 

• Call if you have been out of the country. 

• Call if you have been with someone who has the virus. 

• Call if you have been at a place where people with COVID-19 got medical treatment. 

• Call your doctor, do not go to the office. 

How sick do you get? 

• Most people do not get very sick. It is like having a cold or the flu. 

• Some older people may get really sick. Some people with disabilities may end up in a hospital.  

How can I stay healthy, or not get it? 

• Wash your hands. 

• Use lots of soap and water. 

• Wash for at least 20 seconds. If it helps, count to 20. 

• Wash after using the bathroom or being in public (like going to a store).  

• If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer. Know that washing well with soap and water is still better. 

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow. 

• Coughing and sneezing into your elbow stops germs from going into the air and onto your hands. 

• Try not to touch your face. 

• Do not rub your eyes. 

• Do not touch your mouth.  

• Do not touch your nose. 

• Remember, this is how germs get in your body. If you have to touch your face, do it with a tissue or in the shower. 

• Try to keep your hands busy: 

• Tap your knee. 

• Click a pen. 

• Use a fidget spinner. 

• Use hand sanitizer. 

• Doodle. 

• Squeeze a stress ball. 

• Play a game on your device. 

If I am sick, what should I do? 

• Call your doctor. Do NOT go to a hospital or Urgent Care. 

• Stay home. 

• Use tissues, then throw them away. 

• Avoid contact with others. 

• Keep objects and surfaces clean. 

• Call your doctor if you are getting worse. Call back if you are having trouble breathing. Do what your doctor says. 

If my staff person is sick, what should I do? 

• Doctors say if you are sick stay home. Do not go to work. A sick staff person should stay home until they are well. 

• Tell your team. Tell your case manager. 

What do I do if someone I live with gets sick? 

• Someone else living in your home could get coronavirus or think they have these germs in their body. 

• Stay at least 6 feet away from the sick person. 

• Do not touch surfaces or food that the sick person has touched.  

• Keep washing your hands well. 

• Call your case manager. There may be someplace else you can stay for a few days. 

How do I say hello to my friends? 

• No handshaking. No hugging. No fist bumps. 

• Smile, bump elbows, text, call, message. 

Where can I go these days? 

• Stay away from large groups. 

• No movie theaters or malls. 

• Try to avoid public transportation. 

• Go to the grocery store during the day when it is not crowded.  

• Do not share food or drinks. 

Why is it important to do all of this? 

• You don’t want your grandparents to get sick, do you? 

• Some people with disabilities get sick really easily. You would feel awful if you got your friends or family sick. 

Is there a shot to get so I do not get sick? 

• No. There is not a shot or vaccine to stop the coronavirus. 

Is there a medicine? 

• There is no medicine for COVID-19. 

• Take medicine used when you have a cold or flue. 

• Drink lots of water. Get plenty of rest. 

What do I say to my friends if they get scared or very nervous? 

• Talk to someone you trust. 

• You can show them this for ideas on what to do. 

I have a job. I am worried about missing work. 

• If you are sick, you need to stay home. 

• Health comes before money.  

• Tell your boss you do not feel well. 

• If you are worried about money, talk to your family, friends or team. 

Make a plan in case you have to stay at home. 

• Who can go food shopping for you? 

• Who will call to check in on you? 

• What to do if your staff calls in sick? 

• Make sure you know your doctor’s phone number 

• Talk to your self-advocacy group, friends, family, or support staff about your worries or concerns.