A coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory illnesses. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that originated in Wuhan City, China and has not previously been seen in humans. COVID-19 causes symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the outbreak

The CDC has the most current information on COVID-19 in the U.S.

Who is at most risk?

Those who are most at risk are older adults, babies, and those with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems. Health care workers caring for patients with the virus should also exercise extreme caution. Currently, the CDC recommends that you avoid travel into or out of China South Korea, Iran and Italy.

What are the best ways to prevent from getting Coronavirus?

The best way to prevent any virus from spreading is to:

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Using a hand sanitizer can help as well, but washing your hands is always preferable. Teach children early on how to properly wash their hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into the crook of your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and touchpoints like doorknobs, handles, light switches, and your phone.

Continue to practice good hygiene to prevent coronavirus, and other severe illnesses like the flu, from spreading.

How can I get accurate information about this virus?

We recommend that you get your health information from trusted sources such as:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• The World Health Organization (WHO)
• Your doctor or health provider.