COVID-19
is a new strain of
coronavirus
, the family of viruses that also includes the common cold and other serious respiratory ailments like SARS and MERS. Like the common cold, COVID-19 is very contagious. It is particularly threatening to older people and those with certain health conditions like diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
It will take a
COMMUNITY-WIDE EFFORT
to contain and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here’s what you can do; please follow the links for additional detail:
- Listen to the experts – Follow the instructions of your trusted doctor and the national, state and county health departments. OTHER SOURCES OF INFORMATION MAY NOT BE ACCURATE OR RELIABLE AND CAN PUT YOU AT RISK.
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently for 20 seconds or longer. DO THIS ONCE AN HOUR IF POSSIBLE.
- Disinfect surfaces using bleach or alcohol.
- PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING: Avoid large gatherings and work from home if possible; keep 6 feet distance between you and others to avoid being reached by a cough or sneeze or from someone accidentally spitting when they speak.
- Do not shake hands, hug or kiss --- not even your grandma. Elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable.
- Cover your cough and sneeze with your arm.
It can take up to 14 days for COVID-19 symptoms to show up. Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Other cold symptoms
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, CALL your doctor for instructions to prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community.
