Medical Information

Concerned you might have Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

The Atlantic Health COVID-19 Community Support Line is available for those experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or looking for additional support. A highly-trained Atlantic Health System nurse will answer your call, consult with you, and direct you to the resources you need.

CALL 973-494-9585, OPTION 3. 

Similarly, Atlantic Health has a website listing COVID-19 testing sites in the Northern New Jersey area. 

Union County has walk-up locations for COVID-19 testing (all saliva tests). Registration is done on-site with mobile phone or tablet. Mask required. No food, drink, smoking or chewing gum 30 minutes prior. Results under 48 hours.

The State of New Jersey also offers an online symptom checker. The tool is designed to help you make decisions about seeking appropriate medical care. It is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of disease or other conditions, including COVID-19.

Resources

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. Most cases of COVID-19 are mild to moderate, like the common cold. But it can be more severe in older adults and people with chronic health conditions.

The virus is most likely to be spread from person to person by droplets when coughing and from contact with surfaces where those droplets have landed. Since this virus is new, health authorities continue to carefully watch how this virus spreads

Who is at a higher risk?

  • Older adults
  • People who have serious medical conditions like:
    • Heart disease
    • Diabetes
    • Lung disease

If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. Depending on how severe the outbreak is, pubic health officials may recommend community actions to reduce people’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19. These actions can slow the spread and reduce the impact of disease.

If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.


What should you do? 

  • Get vaccinated, find appointments here
  • Stock up on supplies
    • Extra medications
    • Over-the-counter medicines to treat fever and other symptoms
    • Enough household items and groceries to stay home for a period of time
  • Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others
  • When you go out in public, keep away from others that are sick and wash your hands often
  • Avoid crowds as much as possible
  • Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel
  • During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community stay at home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed


Get Ready Now

If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol

Avoid touching high-touch surfaces in public places—elevator buttons, door handles, handrails, and handshaking with people. Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your hand or finger if you must touch something

Clean and disinfect your home to remove germs. Consider ways of getting food brought to your house through family, social, or commercial networks

Have a plan if you get sick:

  • Consult with your health care provider for information about monitoring your health for symptoms suggestive of COVID-19
  • Stay in touch with others by phone or email
  • Determine who can provide you with care if your caregiver gets sick