Coronavirus Update with Department of Public Health
NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Today New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker, City Officials, Yale Health, and Officials from the State Department of Public Health held a conference call to discuss the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) first identified in Wuhan, China and ensure that the City and regional partners are coordinating efforts. The call was in part in response to two cases in Connecticut of individuals with travel history in China being diagnosed with Influenza A (the common flu), including one who participated in Yale’s Model UN in New Haven. As a precautionary measure, the Center for Disease Control is testing samples to ensure that the patients are not infected with coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
The New Haven patient was participating in the annual Yale Model United Nations and exhibited cough and fever and was taken to Yale New Haven Hospital, where the student tested positive for Influenza A (the common flu). As a precaution, testing for coronavirus at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been arranged with results expected early this week. The patient, who does not exhibit severe symptoms, has been released from the hospital.
With guidance of the Connecticut State Department of Health, The City of New Haven, City Officials, Yale University, and Yale New Haven Health are working closely to monitor the situation and keep in communication.
“Our team has been communicating on an ongoing basis to ensure we are on top of any potential issue related to the coronavirus. While the two cases in Connecticut are influenza cases we are in the midst of flu season, we want to take all precautions to make absolutely sure they do not also coronavirus so as to ensure the health and safety of all residents,” said Mayor Justin Elicker. “We will communicate any changes to events as we learn about them.”
Officials note that while the immediate threat from 2019-nCOV to the general public is low, Connecticut is at the height of respiratory virus season. Influenza activity in Connecticut is widespread and that everyday preventative actions can help stop the spread respiratory viruses such as the flu and coronavirus, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- 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.
Individuals who are experiencing symptoms and may have traveled to areas of concern, or have been in contact with somebody who has traveled to these areas, should call ahead to their healthcare provider before presenting for treatment. The most recent guidance from the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) about the outbreak of a new coronavirus in China is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
#
Comments