According to the CDC a novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

The CDC’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) website list the following symptoms.  These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.*

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breathThe CDC recommends calling your doctor if you develop symptoms or have been in close proximity to someone diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19) or Have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

According to the CDC older people and people of all ages with severe underlying health conditions — like heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, for example — seem to be at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness. CDC information for high-risk populations, including who is at risk and how to prepare is available at  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html

If anybody has a fever, cough, or shortness of breath they should visit their healthcare provider and be evaluated. However, before visiting to a physician’s office, an immediate care facility, or the emergency room call ahead and alert the medical facility. This allows medical personnel to prepare prior to arrival.

Testing is being conducted through the health department and is not yet available in hospitals and clinics.

Clean your hands often

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Individuals should follow the travel advisories posted on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index