Coronavirus: What You Should Know

The following information is available from the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention

How COVID-19 Spreads

Current understanding about how the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spreads is largely based on what is known about similar coronaviruses. COVID-19 is a new disease and there is more to learn about how it spreads, the severity of illness it causes, and to what extent it may spread in the United States.

Person-to-person spread

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Spread from contact with infected surfaces or objects

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Prevention

According to the CDC, 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:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
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 using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Symptoms

According to the CDC, the following symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure:

Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath

Seek medical advice if you

Develop symptoms

AND

Have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or live in or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room. Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

What to Do If You Are Sick With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever1 and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact2 with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact. Your healthcare professional will work with your state’s public health department and CDC to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Governor McMaster's Press Releases

Gov. Henry McMaster Takes Additional Action to Slow Virus Spread

Gov. Henry McMaster Creates Safe Access to Flexible Education (SAFE) Grants

Statement from Gov. Henry McMaster on June Employment Situation

Gov. Henry McMaster Prohibits Alcohol Sales at Bars and Restaurants After 11 PM

Gov. Henry McMaster Declares New State of Emergency, Lifts Restrictions on Bowling Alleys, Retail Capacity Restraints

Gov. Henry McMaster Releases Proposal for CARES Act Funds

Gov. Henry McMaster Lifts Restrictions on Attractions Effective Friday, May 22

Gov. Henry McMaster Signs Continuing Resolution, Issues Signing Statement Urging Swift Action

Gov. Henry McMaster Announces that Additional Businesses, Gyms, Pools are Able to Open Monday, May 18

Gov. Henry McMaster: Restaurants Are Able to Open for Limited Dine-in Services Monday, May 11