GREENVILLE – What is novel coronavirus? The Darke County Health Department explained the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a virus strain that has only spread in people since December 2019. Health experts are concerned because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia in some people.
What is the source of 2019-nCoV? 2019-nCoV likely came from an animal because the first cases were linked to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting a possible zoonotic origin to the outbreak. However, more information is needed to figure out the possible role that animals play in transmission of 2019-nCoV.
How does 2019-nCoV spread? Health experts are still learning the details about how this new coronavirus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through: the air by coughing and sneezing; close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes; and in rare cases, contact with feces.
How severe is 2019-nCoV? Experts are still learning about the range of illness from novel coronavirus. Reported cases have ranged from mild illness (similar to a common cold) to severe pneumonia that requires hospitalization. So far, deaths have been reported mainly in older adults who had other health conditions.
What are the symptoms? People who have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus: fever, cough, difficulty breathing
Who is at risk for 2019-nCoV? Currently the risk to the general public is low. At this time, there are a small number of individual cases in the U.S. To minimize the risk of spread, health officials are working with healthcare providers to promptly identify and evaluate any suspected cases.
How can I protect myself? If you are traveling overseas (to China, but also to other places) follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Traveler’s Health guidance.
Right now, the novel coronavirus has not been spreading widely in the United States; there are no additional precautions recommended for the general public. Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus:
* Wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
* Avoid contact with people who are sick.
* Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
* Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent novel coronavirus infections.
How is 2019-nCoV treated? There are no medications specifically approved for coronavirus. Most people with mild coronavirus illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. However, some people develop pneumonia and require medical care or hospitalization.
Have there been cases of 2019-nCoV in the United States (U.S.)? As of January 27, 2020, the CDC has confirmed five cases of 2019-nCoV. For a map of states with confirmed 2019-nCoV cases, visit the CDC website. This map will be updated by CDC daily. Updated information regarding the number of people under investigation will be updated regularly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Where have there been confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV globally? For an updated list of countries reporting confirmed 2019-nCoV cases, visit the CDC website.
