What Can You do to Keep Yourself Healthy?
There are steps each of us can take to reduce our chances of getting ill—whether from the coronavirus, the flu or a plain, old-fashioned cold.
Treat Yourself Well
- Eat healthy.
- Maintain good sleep habits.
- Manage stress.
Make It Hard for Viruses to Spread
- Cough or sneeze into an arm or a tissue.
- Wash or otherwise sanitize your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- In public spaces, keep at least 6-feet of separation between yourself and others and wear a cloth face covering that is not a surgical mask for N-95 face mask.
- Shelter-in-Place and do not go outside except for essential activities like going to work, to the grocery store, or other activities allowed in your area.
Think of Others
- If feeling ill, call or email a health provider for advice.
- Stay home until your symptoms subside.
For more information on COVID-19, visit the San Francisco Department of Public Health's website.
What should I do if I am feeling symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat?
Students, if you are near campus and are feeling symptoms that might be COVID-19 you should reach out to Student Health Services via phone at 415-338-1251 for advice. If you are at your primary home (off-campus) you should reach out to your primary care provider or urgent care via phone.
In addition, San Francisco State has counseling services for students who are experiencing stress or anxiety. Contact Counseling & Psychological Services (415-338-2208) to schedule an appointment.
Cold vs Flu vs Coronavirus
| Symptoms |
Cold Graduate Onset |
Flu Abrupt Onset |
Coronavirus Range from Mild to Severe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare |
High (100-102 F) Can last 3-4 days |
Common |
| Headache | Rare | Intense | Sometimes |
| General Aches & Pains | Slight |
Common Often Severe |
Sometimes |
| Fatigue & Weakness | Mild | Intense | Sometimes |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual | Sometimes |
| Stuffy Nose | Common | Sometimes | Rare |
| Sneezing | Never | Sometimes | Rare |
| Sore Throat | Common | Common | Sometimes |
| Cough | Mild to Moderate |
Common Can be Severe |
Common |
| Shortness of Breath | Rare | Rare | Sometimes |
Sources: World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention