Imported cases of 2019-nCoV infection in people have been detected in the U.S. While person-to-person spread among close contacts has been detected with this virus, at this time this virus is NOT currently spreading in the community in the United States.
Background Information on Coronavirus:
Information from Iowa Department of Public Health
Facebook briefing on Coronavirus from Iowa Department of Public Health
Travel information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The emergence of a new virus that can infect humans is always a serious public health concern. This is the kind of issue that we prepare to respond to and we are working closely with the state and following federal guidance. The risk to the general public remains low at this time. The risk is associated with travel to China, not to a specific ethnicity or group of people. Right now influenza is a much more significant threat to Iowans.
- It’s not too late to get your flu vaccine
- If you are sick, stay home
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Wash your hand frequently with soap and water
The CDC does not recommend face masks for the general public.
If you traveled to China and feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing you should seek medical care right away. Before you go to a healthcare office, call ahead and tell them about your travel and your symptoms.