A reminder about virus prevention and coronavirus COVID-19

Author
SUNY Morrisville
Published date
10:52 a.m.
News Type
Coronavirus

Recently, a new coronavirus was detected in China that has not been previously found in humans. This new (novel) coronavirus has now been named COVID-19 (previously called 2019-nCoV). There are thousands of confirmed cases in China and additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally, including the United States.

The 2019 novel coronavirus may cause mild to severe respiratory symptoms like:

  • cough
  • fever
  • trouble breathing and
  • pneumonia

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes at this time that symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days after exposure to the virus.

How Does Novel Coronavirus Spread?

Most of the early reported cases had contact with a seafood and live animal market, suggesting an animal source of the outbreak. However, most cases are now likely to be spread from person to person by droplets when coughing. Since this virus is very new, health authorities continue to carefully watch how this virus spreads.

Prevention

While there is currently no vaccine to prevent this virus, these simple steps can help stop the spread of this and other respiratory viruses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who 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.

Remember:

It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season and CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.

Official Information Sources

Please refer to the following resources for the most up-to-date developments and recommendations as you need them to determine appropriate courses of action, including where to seek medical advice and care, when travel restrictions or rearrangements are advisable, and more: