Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and usually cause mild to moderate symptoms. Previous coronavirus outbreaks have included Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

The virus is believed to spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, close personal contact (within about six feet) and by touching contaminated objects or surfaces.

The CDC recommends taking basic precautionary steps to prevent the spread of germs and respiratory viruses.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or more, especially after using the restroom, blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• Use an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and discard used tissues immediately.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in your home.
• Don’t share food or drink.
• Stay home when you are sick.

The CDC advises the use of cloth face coverings with two or more layers to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.