Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Other Resources:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Resources (March 18)

• Disaster Distress Helpline Website
• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
• Text: “TalkWithUs” to 66746

Physician Support Line: 1-888-409-0141 (available 8am – 12am EST daily)
Free confidential peer support telehealth line by volunteer psychiatrists for US physician colleagues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

List of EPA approved disinfectants

Physician members of the Philadelphia County Medical Society are working closely with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health in response to COVID-19 infections in our city. Mitigating an infectious disease like COVID-19 requires a community-wide response. Although many infected persons may have little or no symptoms, they can still spread the virus to chronically ill and elderly persons who may experience serious illness. It is important that everyone in our community follow public and personal health recommendations.

During an outbreak like COVID-19, physicians understand that members of the community have many general questions. We recommend visiting the City of Philadelphia’s Coronavirus webpage.

Philadelphia physicians are always prepared to assist patients who have become ill. The public can assist their doctors and the public health community by following these steps if you are feeling symptoms of acute respiratory illness (e.g., fever, cough, runny nose):

• Stay home and avoid interacting with other people and pets. Choose a room in your home that can be used to separate sick household members from those who are healthy.
• Do not go to the emergency room unless directed by your doctor, or your illness is worsening as indicated by increasing weakness, high fever, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Call you doctor’s office on the telephone and be prepared to describe your symptoms and your travel history. Be sure to mention if you have interacted with anyone who recently traveled or who is sick.
• Cover your cough and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean frequently-touched surfaces and objects (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, bathrooms, and cabinet handles) using a regular household detergent and water.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Your physician is the best resource to evaluate your illness and determine if a COVID-19 lab test is needed.
• Speak with your doctor’s office on the phone to determine the appropriate treatment for you, whether they would like you to come to their office for an in-person visit, or if you will be monitored at home.

The Philadelphia County Medical Society (PCMS) was established in 1848 as a professional association for physicians. PCMS members are physicians, medical students and residents-in-training dedicated to serving the health care needs of the residents of Philadelphia County, with over 6,200 members.

Sincerely,

Mark C. Austerberry
Executive Director
Philadelphia County Medical Society