CHICO, Calif. - Smoke and COVID-19 are causing concern for people right now.

People in Chico and all over California are being impacted by the poor air quality and the possibility of having coronavirus symptoms.

“I woke up this morning with a throat ache or sore throat and I was like is this Corona," said Maggie Smith. "You know, you just get scared nowadays, because of the whole coronavirus and you question whether you have it or not but then I was like nope it’s definitely because of the smoke inhalation.”

Butte County Public Health Officer, Dr. Bernstein, was able to address these concerns. 

“The irritant symptoms, some of which are the same but not fever, not necessarily fatigue, not a runny nose or stuffy nose, those are symptoms that are more likely to be due to the smoke irritation,” said Bernstein. 

People in Chico tell Action News Now that they will continue to protect themselves by wearing a mask whenever possible. 

“Wearing a mask you know," said Owen Vollendroff. "Always in public when in big groups. When you are near people. Just being cautious of who you are around.”

Dr. Bernstein said that he encourages people to stay inside as much as possible due to the poor air quality and encourages people to contact their local health care when they start to feel sick. 

He also encourages those who do have to be outside to be sure and wear a mask.