2019-nCoV: What the Public Should Do

The current outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) originated in China but has now spread internationally, impacting an increasing number of countries. Sustained community spread is occurring in China. Limited person-to-person spread, most associated with close contact with a patient with confirmed 2019-nCoV has been seen outside of China. No community spread of 2019-nCoV has been identified in the United States at this time. In the coming days and weeks, we expect more confirmed cases in the United States, including some person-to-person spread. The goal of CDCs aggressive ongoing public health response is to prevent spread of 2019-nCoV in the United States.

What You Should Do

Stay informed – CDC is updating its website daily with the latest information and advice for the public. (www.cdc/ncov)
Remember to take everyday preventive 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. 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 China 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.

What You Should Not Do

Do not travel to China.
Do not use facemasks. CDC does not recommend the use of facemasks for the general public to prevent the spread of 2019-nCoV.
Do not show prejudice to people of Asian descent, because of fear of this new virus. Do not assume that someone of Asian descent is more likely to have 2019-nCoV.