COVID-19

The virus capturing so much attention in global news is COVID-19. The new coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan City, China. Imported cases have been detected in the United States with person-to-person spread among close contacts of travelers returning from China. The United States government has taken unprecedented steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19, imposing travel restrictions, health monitoring, and possible quarantine. Although preventive measures have been taken, community transmission is now occurring, meaning people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

As of March 3, 2020, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the State of Maryland, although they are testing 13 patients.

Influenza-like illness (ILI) activity in Maryland is HIGH, and there is WIDESPREAD geographic activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s currently flu and respiratory disease season, and they recommend getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.

If you have been in an area where COVID-19 is confirmed, or exposed to someone sick with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, you will face some limitations on your movement and activity. Please follow instructions during this time. Your cooperation is integral to slow the spread of this virus. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms, contact your health care provider, and tell them about your symptoms and your travel or exposure to a COVID-19 patient.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html#anchor_1580064337377
https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/Pages/Novel-coronavirus.aspx