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Answering your coronavirus questions

Here are some questions about coronavirus/COVID-19 sent to News 8 with the answers we were able to find from reputable sources.

SAN DIEGO — As the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 spreads throughout the United States and the world, many are left asking questions. There is a lot of information available online and in the community - but not everything is accurate. Here are some questions sent to News 8 with the answers we were able to find from reputable sources. 

Can you get coronavirus from food?

No, the Food and Drug Administration says “Currently, there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 by food.”

Can you get coronavirus from food containers?

Coronavirus is known to transfer on surfaces, but the FDA says it is not the main way it spreads.

“Currently there is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19,” writes the FDA.

Many restaurants have emailed News 8 to detail how they are taking precautions to maintain a clean establishment.

Remember to wash your hands before eating and use clean utensils.

How does microwaving or freezing affect coronavirus?

There is no clear answer, yet, since this is a new virus.

Harvard Medical School reports “There's a lot we still don't know, such as how different conditions, such as exposure to sunlight, heat, or cold, can affect these survival times.”

Can I get coronavirus from my mail?

It’s unlikely. The World Health Organization says “the risk of catching the virus….from a package that has been moved, traveled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low.”

It is still a good idea to wash your hands after handling mail because Harvard Medical School says:

“A recent study found that the COVID-19 coronavirus can survive up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard, and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel.”

Is it safe to go swimming?

Yes. The Centers for Disease Control says: “There’s no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs.”

Many gyms and public pools are closed to encourage social distancing since pools often require the use of shared locker rooms and equipment.

Is it safe to go to the dentist?

Yes, if you’re healthy and your dentist is open. However, the California Dental Association “recommends dentists voluntarily suspend nonessential or nonurgent dental care for the next 14 days.” This was done to help preserve protective gear and free up offices to focus on those who are most in need of care. Contact your dentist’s office for additional guidance.

Is it safe to go to the doctor’s office if I get sick with something other than coronavirus?

Your doctor’s office will help give you guidance.

In general, Kaiser Permanente, Scripps Health, Sharp HealthCare and UC San Diego Health say when you call to make an appointment, staff will decide if you need to come in. In some cases, providers can give instructions over the phone or by video chat.

Offices and hospitals are open for regular appointments, but staff may need to contact you to reschedule some routine or elective procedures depending on need.

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