Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information and Resources

The Coronavirus represents viruses that are most commonly found in different animal species and can sometimes infect humans. The current outbreak of a new (novel) Coronavirus began in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China in December of 2019. This particular strain of virus is being called Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

How does the virus spread?

The Coronavirus spread is very similar to how flu is spread:

  • Direct contact with droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes
  • Close person-to-person contact with someone who is infected
  • Touching a surface such as a counter top that has the virus on it and then touching your facial area

What is MOR doing to prepare for the virus?

Our priority is the health and safety of our patients. In an effort to keep everyone safe, MOR is asking if patients are sick that they reschedule their appointments for two weeks later.

All counter tops, doors knobs and other highly touched items will be cleaned nightly with the appropriate substance to eliminate the virus. Additionally, MOR will be asking screening questions prior to patient visits.

To reschedule or request a new appointment, call 877-MD-BONES or request online.

Visitor check-in policy

Rush University Medical Center has new restrictions regarding visitors, beginning Friday, March 13. Learn more.

  • Patients in our outpatient clinics may have one support person.
  • Patients having outpatient surgery may have one support person.
  • Patients at the Medical Center for outpatient laboratory or radiology therapy may have one support person.
  • Emergency Department patients may have one support person.
  • No one under the age of 12 will be allowed as a support person.
  • All visitors will be screened at the information desk nearest to their point of entry to the medical center. Visitors who have flu-like symptoms should not visit patients.

Ways to protect yourself:

If you have not traveled to one of the areas known to have Coronavirus or been in close contact with someone who has the virus, the chances of getting the Coronavirus is very low. However, things could change as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) continues to monitor the situation here in the United States. Here is a link that will keep you appraised of the CDC travel advisory information: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices

Start now to protect yourself by following these steps:

  • Wash your hands. Washing your hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer when soap is not available, is a great way to prevent the spread of any disease. 
  • Wash your hands before eating
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or face when hands are unwashed
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Stay home when you are sick and seek medical attention from your primary care provider.  If you aren’t feeling well, the best way to stop the spread of disease is to stay away from heavily populated areas like work or school.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing preferably with a tissue or the sleeve. Dispose of your tissues in a receptacle.
  • Clean and disinfect work / household surfaces frequently. You will see additional sanitizer wipes stationed around the clinical and corporate sites to assist with keeping your work space clean.

Information on the Coronavirus