For More Information Contact:
A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, Commissioner, 845-486-3432
Coronaviruses are an extremely common family of viruses that can cause fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. A novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. Over time and with person-to-person spread occurring, cases have been identified beyond China facilitated by international travel. Currently, it’s unclear how easily or sustainably this virus is spreading between people, but the situation is evolving rapidly.
Cases have been identified within the United States associated with travel from China, but there has been no evidence of sustained transmission. Residents should be aware that spread from person-to-person happens most often among close contacts (about 6 feet). Person-to-person spread is thought to occur mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory pathogens spread. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. It’s currently unclear if a person can get 2019-nCoV by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
DBCH Commissioner A.K. Vaidian said, “There are currently NO confirmed cases of novel Coronavirus in New York State. There are currently NO confirmed cases in Dutchess County, despite the spread of reports on social media stating the opposite. The likelihood of cases being identified in Dutchess County is low, but, as a County we remain vigilant and are ready to be called on to respond to and address any resident’s concerns they may have.”
It is important to know that individuals are at greater risk for other respiratory illnesses in our area, such as influenza and it’s not too late to get a flu shot. The DBCH recommends everyone six months and older be vaccinated against the flu to reduce their risk of becoming ill. You can protect yourself from respiratory viruses, such as influenza and 2019-nCoV by:
For up-to-date information on the novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), please visit www.DutchessNY.gov/Coronavirus. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your health, please contact your healthcare provider. If you have a question about your risk of exposure, call the New York State Department of Health Coronavirus Hotline at (888) 364-3065.