What is it?

Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-2019) is a virus (more specifically, a coronavirus) identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which cause respiratory illnesses. The common coronaviruses that infect humans cause symptoms of the common cold: low grade fever, cough, sneezing and a runny nose. The novel coronavirus 2019 is a new virus that we haven't seen before. Early in this outbreak, many of the patients in the outbreak in Wuhan, China reportedly had some link to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting animal-to-person spread. However, a growing number of patients reportedly have not had exposure to animal markets, indicating person-to-person spread is occurring. At this time, it’s unclear how easily this virus is spreading between people.

Symptoms

For confirmed COVID-2019 infections, reported illnesses have ranged from people with little to no symptoms to people being severely ill and dying. Symptoms can include:

Fever

Cough

Shortness of breath

Prevention

There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 infection. Transmission is occurring through the community and by contact. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Right now the County has a 'shelter in place' order in effect to minimize exposure by having residents stay at home. In addition to these steps, you should also be:

Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

Avoiding touching your face..

Staying home when you are sick.

Covering your cough or sneezing with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If you are sick...

Mild Symptoms

if you are sick and experiencing mild symptoms you should stay at home and, if possible, sequester yourself from others you live with. Common symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, tiredness and a dry cough. If symptoms persist, contact your primary health care provider. There is no vaccine for the coronavirus so the best thing you can do is to rest and drink fluids. Don't go to the ER if you have mild/no symptoms because then you are putting yourself, first responders, healthcare staff and other patients at risk. Find your provider in the list below to see if you need to be seen or not.

Severe Symptoms

If you are short of breath or have persistent pain or pressure in the chest, you should call your provider.

Additional Resources