FAQs for COVID-19

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is a highly infectious virus that has reached every continent except for Antartica. Below are common frequently asked questions about the outbreak.

How is it transmitted? Similar to colds and the flu, the coronavirus is passed person-to-person through coughing, sneezing, or close personal contact to an infected person or surfaces.

What are the symptoms? Common symptoms include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms usually occur 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

How prevalent is it in the U.S.? As of March 16, there are 3,487 confirmed cases and 68 deaths. Most of these cases were exposed due to travel or close contact with an infected person or surface.

What can I do to protect myself? Practice good hygiene and social distancing! Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap is not available, then use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content and wash your hands with soap at the earliest opportunity. Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces, such as door knobs, light switches, counter tops, keyboards, toilets, and sinks. First wash the surface with detergent or soap and water and then disinfect the surface with a household cleaner. If you are sick, stay home unless you are seeking medical assistance. A sick person should wear a mask around other people, but if you are NOT sick, do not wear a mask! It is important that caregivers have masks available to them.

It can be difficult to find animal-free soaps and hand sanitizers, especially in a state of emergency. VeganMed's experts compiled a list of animal-free soaps, hand sanitizers, and wipes HERE.

If you are looking for symptomatic treatment, check out our Cough, Cold, and Allergy products. Please note that these are only a collection of animal-free products and do not replace seeking professional medical advice.

Should I cancel my travel plans? The U.S. Department of State has issued travel advisories for several countries. Stay up to date and plan accordingly.

The CDC posts regular coronavirus updates on their website. It is important to stay calm and act rationally. Keep yourself educated and talk to your family and friends about how to best stay safe.

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