Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday launched a task force to make sure New Jersey is prepared for any threat from the surging new coronavirus.

Murphy also noted that Newark Liberty International Airport is one of 11 major U.S. airports that receive flights from China requiring enhanced screening for the virus, officially known as COVID-19.

There are no confirmed cases of the virus in New Jersey, but Murphy said it’s “critical” the state has “strong preparedness protocols in place.”

“By establishing the Coronavirus Task Force, we are bringing together experts across state agencies, health officials, and federal partners to ensure that we are working collaboratively to protect the health and safety of all New Jerseyans," the governor added.

According to an executive order Murphy signed Monday, the task force will coordinate all state efforts to “prepare for and respond to the public health hazard posed" by the virus.

The task force is chaired by state Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli and will include members of the state’s human services, law and public safety, education, and homeland security departments, as well as the State Police.

They will also coordinate with the federal government and Newark airport to make sure there’s effective communication and information available to the public. Plus, they will coordinate with hospitals and health care facilities to manage any possible treatment for patients with symptoms or risks.

The virus originated in China. It has infected more than 7,000 and killed 170 across the world — the majority in China. But at least 169 cases of the virus have been confirmed in 25 countries outside of China. Eleven cases have been confirmed in the U.S.

Last week, Murphy announced state authorities are “on full alert for any possible cases of coronavirus, and that we have in place strong preparedness protocols.”

The state also launched a website and a hotline — 1-800-222-1222 — to answer questions about the virus.

“Outbreaks like this — when a new virus is emerging to infect people — are always concerning,” Persichilli said Monday. “The situation poses a serious public health threat, but the risk to New Jersey residents remains low and our level of preparedness is high."

Earlier in the day, Princeton University said it has ordered students, faculty and staff who recently traveled to China to self-isolate.

More than 100 students — including undergraduate and graduate students — are in self-isolation, according to Michael Hotchkiss, a deputy university spokesperson. They must confine themselves for 14 days following their last time in mainland China, according to a statement issued by the university.

Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01.

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