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Health Alert - 2019 Novel (New) Coronavirus

About the Novel Coronavirus

A new coronavirus - 2019 Novel (New) Coronavirus which causes an illness called COVID-19 - has been detected that has not been previously found in humans. This coronavirus can lead to fever, cough and shortness of breath. There are tens of thousands of confirmed cases worldwide and additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally, including the United States with many cases recently reported in New York.

While the immediate risk of this new virus to the American public is believed to be low at this time, everyone can do their part to help respond to this emerging public health threat:

• It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season and CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.
• If you are a healthcare provider, you and your office staff should follow established guidelines regarding recent travel inquiries for patients who have fever and respiratory symptoms.
• If you are a healthcare provider caring for a COVID-19 patient or a public health responder, please review and follow recommended infection control procedures.
• If you have been in China or have been exposed to someone sick with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, please contact your healthcare provider, and tell them about your symptoms and your travel or exposure to a COVID-19 patient.
• For people who are ill with COVID-19, please follow CDC guidance on how to reduce the risk of spreading your illness to others.

Health and prevention actions

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
• CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
• Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website

For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.