Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Community Impact

Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. More information and answers to frequently asked questions about novel coronavirus is also available on the NC Department of Health and Human Services website.

 

Travel-Related Questions

• The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) has issued guidance for all citizens regarding non-essential travel. This guidance asks individuals at higher risk to stay home, which means these individuals should not travel if it is not essential at this time. Even if individuals feel healthy and are not exhibiting symptoms, it is important that everyone follow these measures to better protect all our fellow residents, especially for those who have a high risk for severe illness, including those 65 years or older, those with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, or those with weakened immune systems.
• The NC DHHS travel guidance can be found here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina/covid-19-travel
• Brunswick County is urging and reminding all individuals to avoid sick people, follow social distancing protocols and seek communication options including phone, email, and other online resources to limit exposure to others and protect yourself as best as possible.

Animals

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has information about pets and animals in relation to COVID-19 at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/animals.html
• CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.
• If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed), you should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. This can help ensure both you and your animals stay healthy.

Beach Closures

• Each municipality legally handles any issues regarding restrictions or evacuations.  All beaches in Brunswick County are municipalities and need to be contacted directly for information regarding specific guidance and restrictions on visitors.
• The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) has issued guidance for all citizens regarding non-essential travel. This guidance asks individuals at higher risk to stay home, which means these individuals should not travel if it is not essential at this time. Even if individuals feel healthy and are not exhibiting symptoms, it is important that everyone follow these measures to better protect all our fellow residents, especially for those who have a high risk for severe illness, including those 65 years or older, those with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, or those with weakened immune systems.
• The NC DHHS travel guidance can be found here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina/covid-19-travel
• Brunswick County is urging and reminding all individuals to follow social distancing protocols and seek communication options including phone, email, and other online resources to limit exposure to others and protect yourself as best as possible.

Hotel Closures

• Questions about closure policies will need to be answered directly by the hotel or company.
• Public guidance from North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) can be found here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina
• Public guidance from the CDC can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

Hotel Cleaning and Rental Property Cleaning

• Cleaning policies are implemented by hotel management, rental agencies, and cleaning companies. This information is relayed through conversations between employees and employers.
• Business and employer guidance from North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) can be found here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina/businesses-employers
• The Environmental Health staff of the County Health Department can review specific sanitation questions and guidelines. They can be reached by phone at 910.253.2150, or email at env-health@brunswickcountync.gov

Refunds and Rental Insurance

• Refunds and rental insurance for vacation rentals are legal or contractual questions. Rental agencies or companies should be contacted directly regarding these matters.

Resources and Assistance

• To check the inventory and specific supplies at your local grocery store, please contact the store directly.
• The County has information and resources for individuals and businesses that need assistance now online.
  • Community Assistance: https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/emergency/covid-19-community-assistance/
  • Business Resources: https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/health/coronavirus/businessresources/

Restaurants

Read the official Frequently Asked Questions on Executive Order 118 from the Office of the Governor.

Testing

• Testing is available in Brunswick County; if you suspect you have coronavirus symptoms, contact your primary medical provider first to determine if your symptoms warrant a test and if they provide tests; contact Public Health if you need assistance locating a provider to test.
• The County is operating a joint information center with a Public Health Call Line and email to answer coronavirus questions and assist residents and visitors with testing locations.
• Brunswick County Public Health Call Line and Email Information
  • Phone: 1.910.253.2339
  • Email: coronavirus@brunswickcountync.gov
• Individuals who have questions afterhours are encouraged to call the North Carolina Public Health Call Line, which has public health professionals available 24 hours a day every day to answer questions: 1.866.462.3821.

Fliers and Social Media Resources

• NC DHHS Materials and Resources Available for Printing/Sharing
• NC DHHS Social Media Toolkit for COVID-19
• CDC Communication Resources (Fliers, Posters, Videos, etc.)

Brunswick County Resources

Click on an image to download the media file.

Coronavirus Best Hygiene Practices Poster (English and Spanish)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Distancing for Younger Generations Social Media Graphics

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Know Your Risk Infographic

 

American Sign Language (ASL) Videos

 

Message in ASL about Coronavirus (From NC DHHS)

ASL message on self-care during COVID-19 outbreak (From NC DHHS)

Symptoms of Coronavirus 2019 (From CDC)