Information About and Prevention of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (Coronavirus)
Posted on: February 28, 2020 - 4:06pm
In recent weeks, you have likely heard some coverage of a new coronavirus called the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). The Town of Cheverly is working closely with the local/state public health agencies and the Towns medical provider to ensure that appropriate and coordinated protocols are in place. You may notice a change in Town Hall; there will be increased focus on cleaning in high touch areas, signage for handwashing in restrooms, and hand sanitizing stations will be placed throughout Town buildings. This document addresses frequently asked questions on the Coronavirus and provides links to helpful resources. Information follows the most current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure prompt reporting and proper infection control measures. The CDC is the federal agency responsible for setting national guidelines for response to new and emerging health threats. The Town of Cheverly will continue to monitor infection control protocols and update the town with relevant information.
If you have questions/concerns regarding the handling of 2019-nCoV coronavirus, the MDH website provides updated information about COVID-19 at health.maryland.gov/coronavirus and the CDC has current information at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. You may also contact the Prince George Health Department at 301-883-7879.
What Is the Coronavirus and How Is It Spread?
According to the CDC, the new coronavirus causes respiratory illness in people and spreads in ways similar to the common cold or flu. This virus was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. Risk of infection is dependent on exposure. Close contact with people who are infected are at greater risk of exposure.
Patients with 2019-nCoV have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
• fever
• cough
• shortness of breath
In the more severe cases, patients can have complications from pneumonia.
Prevention Methods
Being prepared and taking preventative measures are essential to staying protected.
Practice Careful Hygiene/Protect Yourself: This time of year, individuals are prone to a number of respiratory illnesses. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to a virus. The same everyday precautions apply when dealing with any of these contagious illnesses, including the 2019-nCoV.
These include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially 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. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- 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.
- If you are sick from any respiratory illness and stay home until symptoms subside. It’s important to rest and to prevent exposure to other individuals.
It's not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against coronavirus infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.
Extra Precautions Against the 2019-nCoV (Coronavirus)
Check the CDC and State Department for updated information for travel safety. If travel cannot be avoided, the following link provides current recommendations from the CDC on travel and protection in outbreak regions: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/.
The CDC is taking proactive steps to minimize the spread of 2019-nCoV. This includes entry screening of passengers at airports and coordinating with federal/local public health agencies. If you believe you have been exposed to the virus and have not already been screened, you should:
• Contact your medical provider—even if you do not have symptoms. Call the doctor before your arrival so the office can take proper precautions for your care and the protection of other individuals.
The doctor will:
- Evaluate your exposure level,
- Provide advice on monitoring symptoms/testing, and
- Consult with, and notify, public health agencies.
• Stay isolated from other people and the workplace if you have symptoms.
The following links provide additional guidance on the Coronavirus and its prevention.
• What You Need to Know About 2019 Novel Coronavirus (CDC) (link is https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/about/index.html)
• 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Outbreak — General Information (Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene) (link is https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/Pages/Novel-coronavirus.aspx)
• 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Situation Summary (CDC) (link is https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/summary.html#situation-in-us)
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