STATEMENT UPDATED: March 2, 2020
The current outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was first identified in China but has now spread internationally, impacting an increasing number of countries. In the upcoming days and weeks, the Center for Disease Control has reported that they expect more confirmed cases in the United States. The goal of the CDC’s aggressive ongoing public health response is to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the United States.
“The Alpha-1 Foundation and AlphaNet are following the situation and will continue to keep the Alpha-1 community updated. Community spread of coronavirus has already occurred in the United States and there have been some deaths in the United States. People can be infectious for two weeks prior to the onset of symptoms and can spread disease during that time, as well as after symptoms begin. Frequent hand-washing continues to be recommended to aid in preventing infection. Please remember that influenza also remains an important cause of disease and death in the United States, so don’t forget to receive a flu shot,” stated Dr. Robert Sandhaus, Clinical Director of the Alpha-1 Foundation.
What you should do:
- STAY INFORMED– CDC is updating its website daily with the latest information and advice for the public. Visit the website.
- REMEMBER TO TAKE EVERYDAY PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS that are always recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.
IF YOU FEEL SICK with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, and have traveled to an area of widespread infection (see CDC website) or were in close contact with someone with 2019-nCoV in the 14 days before you began to feel sick, seek medical care. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
