Coronavirus Prevention Tips

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading, and it's essential to take as many precautions as you can to stay healthy and virus free.

Two people ‘presumptively' tested positive for the coronavirus in Manatee and Hillsborough County. 

Symptoms of the Coronavirus include fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

According to the Florida Health Department, "This virus probably originally emerged from an animal source but now seems to be spreading from person-to-person. At this time, it is unclear how easily or sustainably this virus is spreading between people."

Now more than ever it's important to protect yourself from the virus and take as many precautions as you can.

Here are tips on how to protect yourself form the virus: 

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, eating, blowing nose, sneezing or coughing. 
• If you can't get to a bathroom to wash your hands, use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are sick.

Many people think wearing a mask will help prevent them from getting the Coronavirus; however, that is not the case.

According to the World Health Organization, "If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected 2019-nCoV infection."

If you do get sick and start to cough and sneeze that is when you would need to get a mask.

To read more on when to wear a mask and how to dispose of it click here

If you want to read more on prevention tips click here

(Florida Health Department) (World Health Organization) (WFLA)

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