ASL COVID 19 - Harris County


Novel coronavirus is a global health concern.

This new virus was identified in Dec.2019 in China and every day we learn more about the virus.

Novel coronavirus can cause mild symptoms including a runny nose, sore throat, cough and fever.

Symptoms can be more severe for the elderly and people with underlying health conditions.

It can lead to pneumonia, breathing difficulties or in very rare cases, death.

Novel Coronavirus has spread to other countries, including the U.S.

According to the centers for disease control and prevention (CDC), the risk of contracting the disease is low for the American public health due to ongoing public health efforts and screenings.

The CDC has an evolving list of countries with specific travel restrictions and notices. If you are planning to visit or have recently returned from an area where COVID-19 (the coronavirus) transmission has occurred, we ask that you take precautions and refer to www.cdc.gov for the latest travel recommendations.

To help reduce your risk of contracting any respiratory illness such as the flu:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
  • And avoid close contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home and drink plenty of fluids.

If you have a fever, take fever medication.

Be sure to cover your cough with your arm or tissue.

If you believe you are at high risk for coronavirus, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Describe your symptoms and travel history or contact with recent travelers to that region.

For more information on the novel coronavirus, go to Harris County Public Health website at www.hcphtx.org or the cdc website.