Corona Virus Preparedness
Spread #Facts, not #Fear. The COVID-19 disease caused by the virus named SARS-CoV-2 has raised concerns across the globe regarding its rapid spread and potential for mortality. As with any rapidly evolving global ‘crisis’, there is much misinformation, partial information and fear. CDC and local public health officials urge you to remain calm, stay aware and take precautions.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has stated that the potential public health threat posed by COVID-19 is “very high” both in the US and globally. There is however, (at the time of this writing), “little immediate risk of exposure to this virus.” This virus is not spreading widely in the US, however its important to note that basic hygiene and application of certain community measures will help ensure that remains accurate.
This new strain of virus, from a known family of virus called Coronaviridae, has arrived during a current flu and respiratory disease season. CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine and taking everyday preventive measures to stop the spread of disease. Things that you can do each day to help protect you and your family. Health Habits to Prevent the Flu.
Track the Corona Virus Spread
PA Department of Health Corona Virus Update Page
CDC Corona Virus Update Page
- Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Flu and other serious respiratory illnesses, like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough, and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), are spread by cough, sneezing, or unclean hands.
- Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives
Tips on hand washing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers - It’s a SNAP Toolkit: Handwashingexternal icon
Hand washing resources from the It’s A SNAP program, aimed at preventing school absenteeism by promoting clean hands. From the School Network for Absenteeism Prevention, a collaborative project of the CDC, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Cleaning Institute.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. - Practice other good health habits.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. – Source CDC here