While there is an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine more about the Wuhan Coronavirus, below is everything you need to know about the virus including symptoms, how it’s transmitted and more.
What is coronavirus?
The novel coronavirus, discovered in China in late 2019, is part of the human coronavirus family. Coronaviruses are named for the crown-like spikes on the surface of the virus.
What are the other forms of coronavirus?
You’re likely familiar with the common cold and its symptoms. More serious forms of previous coronavirus outbreaks include MERS (MERS-CoV) and SARS (SARS-CoV).
When was the novel coronavirus first detected?
In late 2019, the illness was first identified in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China.
What are some symptoms of the novel coronavirus?
Coronavirus can cause a fever, coughs and breathing difficulties. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your health care provider, visit the nearest urgent care center or head to an emergency room as soon as possible.
Is there any treatment for it?
Treatment depends on level of illness and will be guided by your health care professional.
Can it be passed person-to-person?
Research shows that coronaviruses are most commonly spread from an infected person to others by the air, close personal contact or by touching an object a sick person has touched. You can protect yourself and others by washing your hands frequently or using alcohol-based sanitizer. You should also take precautions to avoid individuals who may be sick.
Should I be worried?
If you have not recently traveled to China, there is virtually no risk of infection. However, if you did travel or have had contact with someone who has traveled to a region impacted by the Wuhan coronavirus and are exhibiting symptoms, you should visit an emergency room near you as soon as possible.
Should I be concerned if my loved ones or I have recently traveled to China?
Most people with respiratory symptoms do not have the virus. If you have not travelled to China recently, there is little risk of infection. However, if you did travel or have had contact with someone who has traveled to a region impacted by the Wuhan coronavirus and are exhibiting symptoms, you should visit an emergency room near you as soon as possible.
I have symptoms of the coronavirus. Do I have it?
Unless you've traveled to China within the last 14 days or had contact with someone who became ill after a visit to the region, you are unlikely to have the nCoV coronavirus. However, if you meet these criteria, you should reach out to your physician for personalized recommendations. Please be sure to share your travel or contact history with your provider.
What are you doing to prepare for patients who may have the virus?
Our team is trained to address situations just like these. We're preparing for the 2019-nCoV specifically by asking about travel history, increasing adequate supplies and following CDC protocol for infection control.
I had a trip planned to China. What do I do?
We recommend that you reach out to your physician. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided guidance for those planning to travel abroad and is actively monitoring the situation. Your doctor can tell you more and provide personalized travel medicine plans.
I think I have the coronavirus. What do I do?
If you have recently traveled to China and have severe respiratory symptoms, you should visit an emergency room near you immediately.
