Resources and Information

What is COVID-19 (2019 novel coronavirus)?

The 2019 novel coronavirus, now known as COVID-19, is a virus strain that was newly identified at the end of 2019. Health experts are concerned because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness and death in some people.

For the most up to date information about this illness we are using the following resources for information and guidance.

What are the symptoms?

People who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus;

  • Diffuculty breathing
  • Cough
  • Fever

Who is at risk for COVID-19?

Currently the risk to the general public is low. At this time, there are a small number of individual cases in the U.S. To minimize the risk of spread, health officials are working with healthcare providers to promptly identify and evaluate any suspected cases. Travelers to and from certain areas of the world may be at increased risk. See www.cdc.gov/coronavirus for the latest travel guidance from the CDC.

How can I avoid getting COVID-19?

If you are traveling overseas (to China but also to other places) follow the CDC’s guidance: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Right now, COVID-19 has not been spreading widely in the United States, so there are no additional precautions recommended for the general public. Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent COVID-19:

  • wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
  • avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
  • avoid contact with people who are sick
  • stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others
  • cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing

Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent COVID-19 infections.

How is COVID-19 treated?

There are no medications specifically approved for COVID-19. Most people with mild COVID-19 illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. However, some cases develop pneumonia and require medical care or hospitalization.