2. How is the virus transmitted and why do I need to be isolated in this room?This virus can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth when a person with COVID-19 speaks, coughs or sneezes. You are admitted to an Isolation Room to minimise potential transmission to others.
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3. What is the cause of COVID-19?The cause of COVID-19 is a virus, called SARSCoV-2.
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4. How is COVID-19 diagnosed?Respiratory samples from patients who are suspected of having this pneumonia (either a swab from patient’s nose and throat, or a phlegm sample) will be taken and sent to the lab to confirm the diagnosis.
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5. What kind of investigations will I need?Investigations e.g. blood tests, chest radiographs (X-rays) may be required depending on your clinical condition and progress.
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6. Is there any treatment for COVID-19? Most patients will have mild symptoms, and do not need specific treatment. If you have symptoms like cough, fever, runny nose or sore throat, we will give you medications to help with those symptoms. If you develop more severe symptoms like shortness of breath, please inform the nurse or doctor immediately.
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7. Will I die from COVID-19?It is normal to worry about how COVID-19 might affect you or your loved ones. In 80% of cases, infections from COVID-19 are usually mild and do not even need any treatment. There is a chance of becoming more ill, which happens more commonly in the elderly population or in those with significant pre-existing medical conditions. Only 5% of patients will require ICU care including breathing support or medications to support their blood pressure.
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8. How long will I be admitted? When can I be discharged?You will be discharged after your tests for COVID-19 are no longer positive. This usually takes about 2-3 weeks. You will need to have 2 negative tests (which are taken 24 hours apart) before you can be discharged.
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9. Will I need to stay in the hospital for the entire time?No, if you are well and are just waiting for your tests to become negative, you will be transferred to a community isolation facility to rest and recover. At this facility, you will be tested, and once you have two negative tests, you will be discharged.
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10. How much do I have to pay for my treatment?As of Singapore Government’s announcement on 7 March 2020, if you are a Singapore Citizen, Singapore resident OR a long term pass holder, your hospital bill will be covered by the Government. This does not apply if you have left Singapore after 27 March 2020 and you are admitted as a suspected COVID-19 case within 14 days of returning.
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11. I'm worried about missing work. Will my boss fire me?Your employer is legally mandated to allow your quarantine/treatment. Your employer is also legally bound to continue to pay your salaries even if you are not allowed to leave your dormitory (e.g. during the Circuit Breaker period). If your employer does not pay your salary within 7 days of the end of the salary period, he can be prosecuted by the Singapore Government.
You can contact Healthserve (+65 3138 4443; call or Whatsapp) if you experience any difficulties with your employment situation.
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