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Novel (new) Coronavirus

​Update on Novel Coronavirus, February 3, 2020 


Update on Novel Coronavirus, February 2, 2020

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department received confirmation on February 2, 2020, from the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) that an adult female visiting the county has tested positive for novel (new) coronavirus. This case is not connected to the first case announced on January 31, 2020. Risk to the general public remains low as a result of this case.


Update on Novel Coronavirus,  January 31, 2020

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department received confirmation on January 31, 2020, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that an adult male resident of the county has tested positive for the novel (new) coronavirus.  This is the first case of novel coronavirus for Santa Clara County and the Bay Area. Risk to the general public remains low as a result of this case.

County of Santa Clara Public Health Department is working closely with the CDC and the California Public Health Department, and other ​partners as this continues to be a rapidly evolving situation. Information will be updated as it becomes available.

Previous News Releases​

 

Travel and Novel Coronavirus

The CDC has issued a Level 3 travel alert to China: People should avoid all nonessential travel to China. 

Updates


Frequently Asked Questions 

in Chinese / Spanish / Vietnamese​​​​​​​​​
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FAQ Novel Coronavirus in English

 
About Novel Coronavirus
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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. 

What do we know about novel coronavirus? (Can we just combine this with “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. 

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. 

Do I need to be concerned about transmission of novel coronavirus? 

We know that everyone is concerned about novel coronavirus. The Public Health Department has been working for weeks to detect any possible cases in our county. The risk to the general public remains low. 

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. 

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 I wear a mask?  

We have no evidence that the virus is spreading to the general public. For this reason, our best advice right now is you do not need to wear a mask. 

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. ​​
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Schools and Parents
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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. 

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. 

When should I keep my child home from school?  

If anyone is ill with fever, cough or other symptoms, they should stay home from work or school and other public activities until they have recovered. 

Should children whose parents traveled to China stay home from school? 

If a child has not traveled to an area with ongoing circulation, and they are not ill, they can continue their everyday activities. But if a child is ill, they should be kept home. 

Can a school send a student home if they recently returned from China and have cold-like symptoms?   

Any student with a fever or respiratory symptoms can be sent home by the school. ​
 

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. ​
Travel
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When should I go to go the doctor (I haven't traveled)? 

If you have not traveled and have mild symptoms like a cough, runny nose, or sore throat, you do not need to go to your doctor or a clinic, and you really do not need to go to an emergency department. ​

But if your illness becomes more severe, call your doctor. Depending on how serious your illness is, you may need to go to the doctor or emergency department. 

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. 

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. 

Should children whose parents traveled to China stay home from school? 

If a child has not traveled to an area with ongoing circulation, and they are not ill, they can continue their everyday activities. But if a child is ill, they should be kept home. 

I just returned from China, is there a lab test that I can have to show that I don’t have the novel coronavirus?  

A lab test does not exist for people who don’t have symptoms. But, if a person has traveled to a place in the world where the virus is circulating, they should closely monitor their health for 14 days after they have returned. If you feel sick with a fever, cough or shortness of breath – stay home, and wear a mask to protect others. Call your healthcare provider and let them know your travel history and your symptoms.   
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I’m Feeling Sick
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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. 
Healthcare Provider
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I'm a healthcare provider. Where can I find information?

We have information about novel coronavirus for clinicians​​.​​​​ 
Who Can I Call?
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Who can I contact if I have questions?   

We have a call center available open Monday through Friday, from 8 am-5 pm: (408) 885-3980 ​
Last updated: 2/3/2020 5:35 PM