Show All Answers

1. What is coronavirus?

Coronavirus is a member of the same family of viruses that causes colds. This new coronavirus came from the Wuhan area of China. Several countries, including the U.S., have begun limited screening for travelers that might have the infection. Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Thailand have reported imported cases. So far, according to the New York Times, there have been over 300 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the U.S. as of Sunday, March 8, 2020. These numbers are expected to rise.

2. How serious is the disease?

This new coronavirus does not appear to be highly contagious nor severe, but it is unknown but it is like more virulent strains in this family - including SARS and MERS - coronavirus can progress to pneumonia. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, and respiratory difficulty. Treatment is similar to that for other viral infections.

Your health and safety are always a top concern in Seat Pleasant: A Smart City of Excellence. As in all cases of emerging infectious diseases, we monitor closely and follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Maryland Department of Health and the Prince George's County Health Department. For more detailed information go to the CDC How COVID-19 Spreads page.

3. How is coronavirus spread?

This new coronavirus does not appear to be highly contagious, but this situation can change as more is known about this virus and it evolves. Human to human transmission is clearly occurring. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are screening arrivals from the Wuhan area of China at airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Your health and safety are always a top concern in Seat Pleasant: A Smart City of Excellence. Our government and other caregivers are asking people with fever or other symptoms about their recent travel to China and/or exposure to someone who has traveled to China to contact their physician immediately.

If you or a family member have traveled recently to an area of risk and have symptoms of respiratory illness, you should call your primary care physician for an appointment or advice for further instructions. It's important to call your primary care physician before you go in. Calling ahead helps them direct you to the most appropriate care, and take precautions to protect other patients, employees, and the public.

For up-to-date information about coronavirus situation visit the CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 page.