The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is working closely with healthcare providers, local public health departments, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to actively monitor any potential cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in Michigan. MDHHS will update information as it becomes available at: www.michigan.gov/coronavirus.
What is 2019 Novel Coronavirus?
2019 Novel Coronavirus is a virus strain that has only spread in people since December 2019. Health experts are concerned because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia.
How does 2019 Novel Coronavirus spread?
Health experts are still learning the details about how this new coronavirus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through:
- the air by coughing and sneezing.
- close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands.
- touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your
- mouth, nose, or eyes.
- in rare cases, contact with feces.
What are the symptoms of 2019 Novel Coronavirus?
People who have been diagnosed with 2019 Novel Coronavirus have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty Breathing
Who is at risk for 2019 Novel Coronavirus?
Currently the risk to the general public is low. At this time, there are a small number of individual cases in the United States. To minimize the risk of spread, health officials are working with healthcare providers to promptly identify and evaluate any suspected cases.
Travelers to and from certain areas of the world may be at increased risk. See cdc.gov/travel for the latest travel guidance from the CDC.
How can I protect myself from getting 2019 Novel Coronavirus?
If you are traveling overseas (to China but also to other places) follow the CDC’s guidance: cdc.gov/travel.
Right now, there are no additional precautions recommended for the general public. Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent 2019 Novel Coronavirus:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home if you are sick, and contact your healthcare provider.
How is 2019 Novel Coronavirus treated?
There are no medications specifically approved for coronavirus. People infected with 2019 Novel Coronavirus should receive supportive care to help relieve symptoms. For severe cases, treatment should include care to support vital organ functions.
2019 Novel Coronavirus Information Updates:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov/coronavirus Michigan Department of Health and Human Services: michigan.gov/coronavirus
Download the Coronavirus Fact Sheet
