CDC Answers: “Who Should I call?”

Who should I call about COVID-19?

I want to know more about COVID-19, who should I call?

• For general questions about COVID_19, you can call the IDPH COVID-19 Hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email DPH.SICK@illinois.gov. Please note that the Hotline does not make decisions about who should be tested for COVID-19

I am not feeling well and have respiratory symptoms, what should I do?

• Please stay home for at least 7 days after you first became ill, or 72 hours after your fever has resolved and symptoms are improving, whichever is longer
You should consult with your health care provider if you have:
• Fever, cough, trouble breathing, or other flu-like symptoms that are not better or are worsening after 24-48 hours
• Mild symptoms and are pregnant or immunosuppressed or are an older adult with chronic health conditions
Please don’t call the health department about getting testing
• Your health care provider will determine if you should be tested, and will call the health
department if needed
• Health departments do not collect specimens for COVID-19

I think I need immediate medical attention, who should I call?

• If you need immediate medical attention, and you think you may have COVID-19, please call ahead to your health care provider before going in for care. This will allow them to take the right steps to protect themselves and other patients
• If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911; if you have been exposed to COVID-19, notify dispatch personnel so emergency medical services personnel can take steps to protect themselves