Facts (CDC)

The following information has been taken from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official website.

What is COVID-19?

The COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus, is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. The virus causing COVID-19 is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

What are the symptoms?

The mild to severe respiratory illness has symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath. Symptoms can show two to fourteen days after exposure to the virus. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19 nor is there a vaccine to prevent it, however these symptoms are highly treatable. If you are presenting these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

How is it transmitted?

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Who is at greater risk for complications?

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. At this moment the CDC does not consider pregnant women or children at higher risk of complications.

What can I do to keep my family safe?

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. In addition, take the following steps to protect your health and others':

• Wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your face with your hands
• Avoid close contact with people that are sick and distance yourself from people in general
• Stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading germs to others
• Cover cough and sneezes with a tissue and dispose it immediately
• Wear a facemask if you are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily (door knobs, phones, tables, desks, switches, etc.)

For more detailed and up to date information please visit the CDC Coronavirus website.