Source: CDC.gov/NCoV
What is the Coronavirus?
The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a new virus that causes respiratory illness in people and can spread from person-to-person. This virus was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. Severe complications may include pneumonia in both lungs.
Can people in the U.S. get the Novel Coronavirus?
This 2019-nCoV virus does seem to be able to spread from person-to-person although it’s not clear how easily this happens. Person-to-person spread in the United States has not yet been detected, but it’s likely to occur to some extent. At this time, this virus is not spreading in the United States so the likelihood of someone in the U.S. getting sick with this virus is very low. Right now, the greatest risk of infection is for people in Wuhan or people who have traveled to Wuhan and less so, other parts of China. The CDC continues to closely monitor the situation.
Have there been cases of 2019-nCoV in the U.S.?
Yes. The first infection with 2019-nCoV in the United States was reported on January 21, 2020. The current count of cases of infection with 2019-nCoV in the United States is available on the CDC’s webpage: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html
How does 2019-nCoV spread?
The exact way the virus is spread is not fully known. With similar coronaviruses (MERS and SARS) person-to-person spread is thought to have happened mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other viruses that cause respiratory illness to spread. It may also spread when a person touches a surface or object that has virus on it and then touches his or her own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
What are the symptoms of 2019-nCoV?
Patients with 2019-nCoV have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
fever
cough
shortness of breath
How can I help protect myself?
This virus is NOT spreading in the United States right now, but the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should:
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
What should I do if I recently traveled to China and got sick?
If you were in China within the past 21 days and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should get medical care. Call your Provider’s Office BEFORE you go and tell them about your travel and your symptoms. They will give you instructions on how to get care without exposing other people to your illness. While sick, avoid contact with people, don’t go out and delay any travel to reduce the possibility of spreading illness to others.