A novel coronavirus called SARS-coV-2 (formally called 2019-nCoV) has emerged out of Wuhan, China. In the following weeks since its emergence, the virus has spread to multiple countries around the world, including the United States. The illness that SARS-CoV-2 causes is COVID-19. Symptoms of COVID-19 can appear 2-14 days after exposure and include:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Current case counts in the United States are available on the CDC website. Current case counts in Texas are available on the DSHS website.
www.cdc.gov/coronavi rus/2019-ncov/index. html
www.dshs.texas.gov
Prevention:
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. These everyday actions can all prevent exposure to other respiratory viruses as well.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC's recommendations for using a facemask. CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if visibly dirty.
DSHS Call Center:
Texas Department of State Health Services has a dedicated call center to answer your COVID-19 related questions or concerns. To find more information about COVID-19, please visit the CDC or DSHS websites or call the number below.
DSHS COVID 19 Call Center: 1-877-570-9779
Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Monday - Friday
Resources/Info:
www.fbchhs.org/home- hhs
www.sugarlandtx.gov/ 1905/2019-Novel-Coro navirus-COVID-19-Inf ormat
FORT BEND ISD:
Due to growing global concerns and rising numbers of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in both Texas and in the Houston region, Fort Bend ISD will suspend classes for at least two weeks effective March 16 while Fort Bend ISD finalizes online learning logistics and training for staff.
www.fortbendisd.com