About Novel Coronavirus 2019 (2019-nCoV)

Is it safe to travel?

CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to countries with cases of coronavirus.

There is an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that can be spread from person to person.

Older adults and people with underlying health conditions may be at increased risk for severe disease.

The situation is evolving. This notice will be updated as more information becomes available.

How do I care for a person who has been confined to home?

  • Separate the person from others, keeping them at least 1 metre in distance from others.
  • Have the person wear a mask for the period of home-monitoring.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after each contact with them.
  • Improve the air flow where the person stays. Use doors and windows to take advantage of breezes.
  • Keep the environment clean with readily available household cleaning agents.
  • Clean contact areas such as countertops, door handles, bathrooms, light switches, landline phone with a diluted bleach solution (1 part 5.25% bleach to 9 parts water).

What should I do if I need medical attention?

  • Contact your doctor or healthcare provider before travelling to a health facility, and report your symptoms. Explain why you think you have 2019-nCoV (if you have recently travelled to a country where there is an outbreak in humans). Follow the advice given to you.
  • If it is not possible to contact your healthcare provider in advance, communicate your suspicion of infection as soon as you arrive at the facility.
  • Cover your nose and mouth during travel with a mask where possible.

When should urgent medical attention be sought?

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting

In Children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash

Are some people more at risk?

W.H.O. recommends that everyone take precautions to prevent the spread of infection.

Are there any special recommendations for pregnant women?

Yes, they are vulnerable. Like everyone, they should take all the necessary precautions.

Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick?

Do not handle pets or other animals while sick. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with 2019-nCoV, several types of coronaviruses can cause illness in animals and spread between animals and people. Until we know more, avoid contact with animals and wear a facemask if you must be around animals or care for a pet.

What if I was in contact with someone who travelled?

Call your healthcare provider.

Adapted from CDC 2019-nCoV

Frequently Asked Questions

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html

March 2020