Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a new virus that causes respiratory illness in people and can spread from person-to-person. This virus was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. (Source: CDC)
Quick Links to Coronavirus Information
- Coronavirus Testing Information
- County Contact Information & Virtual Services
- Municipal Toolkit for COVID-19
- Community Assistance for COVID-19
- Resources for Businesses in Response to COVID-19
- Understanding Your Risk for Coronavirus
Coronavirus Helpline
Residents with general questions can call the statewide Coronavirus Helpline, answered 24 hours a day/7 days a week: 1-866-462-3821. The line, which was established by the NC Division of Public Health, is staffed by North Carolina Poison Control’s nurses and pharmacists who are backed by clinical and medical toxicologists and who have been trained in responding with up-to-date information to a host of questions about coronavirus.
More information can also be found on the CDC and NCDHHS websites.
Provider Guidance
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
For The Public
Preventing the Spread of Germs
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)
The general public is encouraged to watch these videos to learn more about how they can keep themselves healthy by practicing improved hygiene.
