The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, is a new respiratory disease. It can spread from person-to-person and is highly infectious. There is currently no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19.
Adults over 60 and those who have medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes or lung disease are most at risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. These individuals should take extra precautions to reduce their risk of getting sick with the disease. This may include stocking up on supplies, filling multiple months of prescriptions, taking everyday precautions like proper hand washing, limiting close contact with others – especially those who may be sick, avoiding all crowds and staying home as much as possible.
For those concerned about symptoms like cough, fever, or other minor respiratory problems, call your health care provider. Do not go to the emergency room unless you are injured or may require urgent care. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs without putting the health of the patients, healthcare workers and the general public at further risk.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking preventative safety measures, including social distancing.