Information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

03/09/2020 Update: Click HERE for the Linn County Health Department press release.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. The first confirmed case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. Several countries, including the United States, are actively screening incoming travelers at airports that receive direct flights from China.

The risk to the public in Linn County, Kansas of infection from this novel coronavirus is low, although the emergence of any new virus presents a challenge to public health and health care systems. The Linn County Health Department will continue working closely with local, state and federal partners to monitor, respond and inform the public of any potential threat.

All travelers returning from geographic areas with widespread community transmission are encouraged to remain at home and avoid large gatherings for 14 days after returning to the United States. If you have any questions, call 913-352-6640 during regular business hours.

Who is at risk for COVID-19?

You have a fever or signs of a lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough or shortness of breath) and you have had close contact with a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patient within 14 days of symptom onset (includes healthcare workers).
You have a fever and signs/symptoms of a lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough or shortness of breath) and a history of travel in geographic areas with widespread community transmission within 14 days of symptom onset.
You have a fever with acute lower respiratory illness (e.g., pneumonia, ARDS) requiring hospitalization and no alternative diagnosis (e.g., influenza) and no source of COVID-19 exposure identified.

Take simple steps to prevent the spread of diseases like COVID-19 by:

Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
Covering your coughs and sneezes
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Stay home when sick, except to get medical care
Wash your hands frequently, with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Health care providers should immediately notify infection control at their health care facility and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment at (877) 427-7317 if they have a patient under investigation for COVID-19. KDHE is coordinating all testing for the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Visit this page for current case counts, prevention information, travel notices, guidance, and frequently asked questions. Information in Chinese.

Information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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