One Big Thing: Coronavirus

Check out the CDC's best practices and tips on preventing Coronavirus in your community

What is it?

• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) discovered in late 2019 in Wuhan, China and has since spread across the globe. As of today, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported the global statistics at 153 517 confirmed cases and 5735 deaths. There current is no vaccine to prevent Coronavirus.
• Some symptoms of Coronavirus may appear up to 2-14 days after exposure and are fever, dry coughing, and shortness of breath. The CDC defines “exposure” as being within approximately 6 feet of a COVID-19 case; close contact with a COVID-19 case or having direct contact with secretions of a COVID-19 case (e.g., being coughed on).
• While older adults and people with chronic medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease and most at risk of getting very sick with from coronavirus, it poses a risk to everyone and we all should be cautious and prepared.

Why is it important?

• COVID-19 has been declared a pandemic by WHO impacting the global community.
• In the U.S., the disease has spread to every state except West Virginia, according to the CDC. States and municipalities have taken drastic steps to halt the spread of the disease by closing down schools, public events, bars & restaurants and other places where people congregate in large crowds.
• This has a severe impact on the U.S. economy as well as the world.  The U.S. House of Representatives passed an extensive package to in response to the crisis. It now sits with the Senate and will likely be signed by the president.  

What can you do?

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and avoid itching or touching your face.
• In your community, avoid close contact with people who are sick and maintain distance from others if Coronavirus is spreading in your area. The CDC also recommends canceling any large gatherings where the disease could be spread.
• If you think you have been exposed to Coronavirus and develop symptoms, immediately call your healthcare provider for medical advice. You should also take the appropriate steps to prevent spreading the disease to those around you.
• Check out the CDC’s recommendations for protecting your home, school and work.
• Get daily situation reports about global statistics from the WHO and track hotspots from John Hopkins University