Update on Novel Coronavirus from Santa Clara County Public Health

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department and other local health departments, are working closely with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to closely monitor the novel (new) coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. 
 
To date, there are no cases of this novel coronavirus reported in Santa Clara County.  Milpitas Unified School District continues to stay in contact with the Santa Clara County Office of Education to provide updates from the Public Health Department.
 
Travel and Novel Coronavirus
The CDC has issued a Level 3 travel alert to China: People should avoid all nonessential travel to China.

Translations now available:
Chinese
Spanish
Vietnamese

​Novel Coronavirus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is happening?
There has been an outbreak of new illness called "novel coronavirus". While the illness started in China, the situation is quickly changing.

​What do we know about novel coronavirus?
People with the virus have been confirmed in a number of countries including the United States. Since this virus is very new, health authorities are carefully watching the situation and how this virus spreads. This situation is quickly changing, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) provide updated information as it becomes available.

​What is the County of Santa Clara Public Health Department doing?
Public health officials are taking action to protect the public. The CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) are closely monitoring the outbreak. Public health departments, including at County of Santa Clara, are working to identify anyone who might be infected to prevent further spread of the outbreak. To date, no confirmed cases have been identified in Santa Clara County.

​Is my family at risk of getting novel coronavirus?
At this time, the general public in Santa Clara County is at low risk for the new coronavirus. However, public health officials are still learning about this virus. It is important that everyone take preventative measures to help decrease the spread of the flu and other viruses that are in our community. Stay away from people who have signs of a respiratory tract infection, such as runny nose, coughing, and sneezing, and try to avoid gatherings with lots of people. 

What should I do now to protect my family?
1. Get your flu shot to protect against flu, which can produce symptoms similar to novel coronavirus.
2. Wash your hands with liquid soap and water, rub for at least 20 seconds.
3. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, sleeve or arm. Do not use your hands.
4. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. 
5. Stay home if you are sick with any respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath and are feeling tired.
6. Try staying away from large groups of people.
7. CDC recommends against traveling to China.

​Should we avoid going to public events?
Please remember that flu and other respiratory viruses are very common right now, and large group gatherings are places where viruses often spread. Remember, if you are not feeling well or are experiencing cold, flu or other symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading germs.

What happens if someone has traveled to China and they are now sick?
If someone who has travelled from Wuhan, China and has symptoms of respiratory illness, they should be sent home from school/work and the school should immediately contact Public Health.

​What are the symptoms of novel coronavirus?
Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, cough, or shortness of breath. Some people may have pneumonia or more serious illness.

​I'm sick. How do I know if it is coronavirus or something else, like flu?
If you have traveled to Wuhan, China in the 14 days before your symptoms started or have been in close contact with someone ill who has been there, please contact your doctor.

​How is novel coronavirus spread? Are my children and family at risk?
It is unclear how easily or frequently this virus may spread from person to person, so it's important to practice good hygiene (e.g. cover your cough and sneeze, and wash hands, avoid touching your face). We are still learning about this new virus, but at this time the risk is low to Santa Clara County residents.

​Should we cancel travel plans to Asian countries?
At this time, the CDC has issued a Level 3 warning, recommending to avoid all nonessential travel to China. Please check the CDC website for current advisories to other countries.

​I'm feeling stressed and overwhelmed, who can I talk to?

• ​Anonymous crisis line is available 24 hours, 7 days a week including holidays: 1-800-704-0900 (Mental Health Services) and/or SAMHSA's Disaster Distress Helpline 24 hours at 1-800-985-5990 
• Text TALKWITHUS to 66746 (Press 2 for Spanish).

​I'm a healthcare provider. Where can I find information?
County Public Health has information about novel coronavirus for clinicians

​Who can I contact if I have questions? 
County Public Health have a call center available open Monday through Friday, from 8am-5pm: (408) 885-3980​.

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