As if the current cold and flu season was not active enough, the newly detected, rapidly spreading Coronavirus is now of great concern. Many efforts are underway to prevent the spread of this very contagious pathogen. This bulletin is meant to share information about this virus from the CDC as well as act as a reminder to WASH HANDS, stay home when sick, and maintain awareness of sick contacts.
The Coronavirus causes pneumonia-like illness ranging in severity from mild illness to fatal. Symptoms seen in those affected include cough, fever, and shortness of breath and can appear from 2 to 14 days after exposure.
Check the CDC’s frequently asked questions for more information. And the CDS also offers this guidance on prevention and treatment.
Risk exists when traveling to areas of concern. Below are the current travel advisories issued by the CDC (as of February 26, 2020).
- CDC has issued the following travel guidance related to COVID-19:
- China — Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel — updated February 22;
- South Korea — Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel — updated February 24;
- Japan — Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions — updated February 22;
- Iran — Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions — issued February 23;
- Italy — Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions — issued February 23;
- Hong Kong — Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions — issued February 19.
- CDC also recommends that all travelers reconsider cruise ship voyages into or within Asia at this time.
More cases are anticipated, and other illnesses like influenza are circulating widely, so the following steps are imperative to follow:
- Practice vigilant hand hygiene (e.g. WASH HANDS)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Stay home when you are sick
- Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue and immediately discard it
- Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces
If you traveled to China, or the other locations listed above, in the last 14 days and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should:
- Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
- Avoid contact with others.
- Do not travel while sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
The annual cold and flu season is very active and is anticipated to be for a number of weeks. It’s not too late to get your flu vaccine! If you are in or visiting Vermont, go to the National Life Health + Wellness Center any time for a quick immunization appointment. If you are not able to go to our Health Center, please go to your local pharmacy and present your medical card.
Finally, we can’t emphasize the following points enough: WASH YOUR HANDS, stay/go home when sick, and visit a health care provider (e.g. Health + Wellness Center) if your symptoms seem more severe or are lasting longer than the usual cold!