The 2019 Coronavirus: Preparedness. Please note that as of the publication of this announcement, DHEC is reporting that there are no cases in South Carolina.
Because viruses can spread quickly and carriers of the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) can show no symptoms for up to two we, it’s important provide information to our community on how to take appropriate preventive measures related to health and wellness.
The 2019-nCoV is a virus identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. Early on, many of the patients in the outbreak reportedly had some link to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting animal-to-person spread. However, a growing number of patients reportedly have not had exposure to animal markets, suggesting person-to-person spread is occurring. At this time, it is unclear how easily or sustainably this virus is spreading between people.
Signs and symptoms of this illness include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
Anyone who has traveled to China in the last 14 days and who feels sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing should seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
According to the CDC, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The best way to do this is to:
- Avoid contact with others, especially those who are sick.
- Stay home and do not travel while sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. Then discard the tissue in the trash.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
There is much more to learn about the transmission, severity and other features associated with 2019-nCoV and investigations are ongoing. The latest situation summary updates are available on CDC’s website.
Please note that as of the printing of this announcement, DHEC is reporting that there are no cases in South Carolina.
