VA has implemented an aggressive public health response to protect and care for Veterans in the face of this emerging health risk. We are working directly with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal partners to monitor the outbreak of the virus.

VA has administered over 100 COVID-19 tests nationwide while taking aggressive steps to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

These measures include outreach to Veterans and staff, clinical screening at VA health care facilities, and protective procedures for patients admitted to community living centers and spinal cord injury units.

Any Veteran with symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath should immediately contact their local VA facility. VA urges Veterans to call before visiting – you can find contact information for your closest VA facility.

Alternatively, Veterans can sign into MyHealtheVet to send a secure message to VA or use telehealth options to explain their condition and receive a prompt diagnosis.

Upon arriving at VA, all patients will be screened for flu-like symptoms before they enter in order to protect other patients and staff. A VA health care professional will assist you with next steps once this screening process is complete.

At this time, VA is urging all visitors who do not feel well to please postpone their visits to VA facilities.

Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent the COVID-19 infection and no medication to treat it. CDC believes symptoms appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. Avoid exposure and avoid exposing others to an infection with these simple steps.

1. Learn to use VA Video Connect through the VA mobile app store or by contacting your VA care team, before any urgent problems arise.
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An easy way to mark the time is to hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice while scrubbing.
3. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
5. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
6. Stay home when you are sick or becoming sick.
7. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (not your hands) and throw the tissue in the trash.
8. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
9. Getting a flu shot is recommended.

Nationally, as of March 14, 2020, VA is tracking the following Veteran patients with either a CDC confirmed or a locally, presumptively confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. This is a rapidly evolving situation and VA will provide updated information as it becomes available and verified.

4 Confirmed Veterans

17 Presumptive Positive Veterans (awaiting CDC confirmation)