Protecting Ourselves
It is important to follow these simple steps:
Become familiar with and recognize symptoms of the illness
Seek care immediately if you have recently traveled within the affected regions and are experiencing these symptoms
Always practice good hygiene – wash hands, cover mouths while coughing and sneezing, and avoid sharing food, cups or utensils
Get an annual flu shot
Symptoms
Coronavirus symptoms can include a high fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, similar to what you may feel with influenza or a bad cold. The incubation period (how soon the symptoms appear from the time of first exposure) for these types of viruses is typically 10-14 days.
Prevent Respiratory Illness
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If you don’t have soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol based.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
Stay home when you’re sick, and keep your children home when they’re sick.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
infographic don't shake hands
Don’t touch or shake hands with people who are sick.
Try not to touch your face with unwashed hands.
If you are concerned that you have been exposed to 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), please call the Florida Department of Health Call Center available 24/7 +1 (866) 779-6121 or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov - and your healthcare provider before traveling to any healthcare facility.
For updated information regarding 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) please visit www.floridahealth.gov or www.cdc.gov
