MOHAVE COUNTY – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of pneumonia caused by a new type of coronavirus (2019-nCoV) first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities are reporting a growing number of cases, including cases outside Wuhan City. The Mohave County Department of Public Health is partnering with the Arizona Department of Health Services and CDC in responding to this outbreak.
On Sunday, January 26, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed travel-related infections of the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in the United States. These patients recently returned to the U.S. from Wuhan, China, where the outbreak has been ongoing since December 2019. There are five reported cases in the United States, but officials expect to see additional travel-related cases. No cases have been reported in Mohave County. Travel to Wuhan, China remains the main risk factor associated with this illness.
Although the outbreak is a “very serious public health threat, the immediate risk to the U.S. public is low at this time,” said Nancy Messonnier, director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.
Although there has been no person-to-person spread of 2019-nCoV in the U.S., it is believed the virus could spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory illnesses spread. Symptoms appear two days to 14 days after exposure.
Taking preventative measures can reduce the spread of 2019-nCoV, influenza, and colds.
- 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.
There is no vaccine to protect against 2019-nCoV. Patients with confirmed 2019-nCoV infection have reported mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- fever
- cough
- difficulty breathing.
The Mohave County Department of Public Health is monitoring the situation and will implement an Outbreak Response Plan if needed. For the most up-to-date information on the outbreak and travel guidance please visit the CDC’s website for the Novel Coronavirus 2019. The Mohave County Department of Public Health will provide updates on the Mohave County home page as they become available.