The 2019 novel coronavirus, or 2019-nCoV, is a new respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. The novel coronavirus is a new virus and part of a large group of viruses that infect people and while normally causing a mild respiratory disease - such as the common cold - it can potentially be deadly. Signs and symptoms of this coronavirus illness include fever, cold spells, cough, difficulty breathing, chills and muscle pains. Be advised that this is cold and flu season, and the coronavirus shares similar symptoms to both these illnesses.
- Person-to-person spreads mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory pathogens spread.
- Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure
- Vaccines are in development and limited treatment options are available
- Recovery for average healthy adult is 7-14 days
- Greatest risk is to elderly or those who have complicated medical problems, but long term effects are noted in 20% in young adults
Preventive Measure Tips/Guidelines
Follow HPCON measures and core tenets: Protect Yourself, Protect the Bubble and Protect Others.
However, if you are feeling sick or ill, do not come to work and follow the below guidelines:
- Seek US medical care/treatment if you are feeling sick, experiencing fever, cough or difficulty breathing; be sure to call ahead to the medical clinic to advise them of recent travels and current symptoms.
- Wear a surgical mask or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Perform routine cleaning of all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace - doorknobs, countertops, desks, refrigerators, keyboards, remote controls, etc. - with disposable wipes; additional disinfection beyond routine cleaning is not needed.
- Avoid nonessential travel
- Avoid travel or contact with others while sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
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