This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the most recent guidance from NC DHHS is linked below.

Provider Guidance

• NC DHHS Memo to North Carolina Health Care Providers
• State Health Director Temporary Order Requiring the Reporting of Novel Coronavirus
• Interim Guidance for Personal Protective Equipment

Guidance for Health Care Settings

• Interim Healthcare Facility Preparedness Checklist
• Healthcare Personnel and Visitor Monitoring Log
• NC Interim Guidance for Long Term Care Settings

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).  The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

Practice everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• 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. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• 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 hands are visibly dirty.

For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website.

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.

People at High Risk

Early information out of China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:

• Older adults
• People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Lung disease

If you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, you should:

• Stock up on supplies
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often
• Avoid crowds as much as possible
• If a COVID-19 outbreak occurs in your community, stay home as much as possible

(Source: CDC)