March 17, 2020 at 1:45 p.m.
First Positive Test Returned in Grand County
GRAND COUNTY – Grand County Public Health (GCPH) received a positive test result for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Tuesday March 17, 2020. The patient is a resident of Grand County. GCPH is working on contact tracing and quarantine measures for the infected patient. The patient provided a sample for testing on March 12th and we received results today from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE).
The information we can share at this time is that the patient has been on self-quarantine since the day before the test. GCPH is working to identify and contact any individuals who may be at risk of having contracted COVID-19 from this individual. As the investigation continues, GCPH will publish any information related to health risks to the general public.
If you are concerned about your symptoms, please call the office of your health care provider for guidance. Tell them about your travel or contact as well as your symptoms. Your health care professional will work with county and state public health departments and the CDC to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
GCPH encourages Grand County residents and visitors to be diligent in practicing behaviors that limit the spread of disease:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Get a flu shot if you have not already received one this year. Lower numbers of flu cases reduce pressure on health care resources.
- Keep your distance from anyone who is sick.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your inner elbow shirt sleeve, not your hand. Throw any tissues directly in the trash immediately after use.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Do not congregate in groups of more than ten and stay at least six feet apart.
- To ensure the health and safety of all members of the community, we request that you do not stockpile over-the-counter medications as supplies are limited.
If you are feeling heightened stress or anxiety related to COVID-19, please call the Colorado Crisis Support Line at: 844-493-TALK (8255), Text TALK to 38255 or visit www.ColoradoCrisisServices.org
As COVID-19 spreads in Grand County, at-risk individuals should stay home as much as possible to avoid contact with other people. They should enlist friends or family members who are at lower risk to bring food and other supplies to the house.
At-risk individuals who do not have locally based, low-risk friends or family should contact Grand County Human Services at 970-725-3331 for assistance with critical supplies like food and medication.
To learn more about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus, including symptoms and prevention, visit the State of Colorado’s COVID-19 webpage, which also includes a link to outbreak data from the CDC.
People who have general questions about COVID-19 can call CO-Help at 303-389-1687 or 877-462-2911, or you can email COHELP@RMPDC.org, for answers in English and Spanish.
For specific questions regarding Team Grand County’s response please call 970-725-3803 or email JIC@CO.GRAND.CO.US. For a recorded message in English and Spanish regarding COVID-19, please call 970-725-3755.
See Official Press Release
March 17, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
Morning Update Regarding COVID-19
Yesterday was an eventful day, below are the updates. Please direct any questions you may have to JIC@CO.GRAND.CO.US
Beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020 all Grand County government buildings and facilities will be closed to the general public until further notice due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
- The public is encouraged to conduct business online and by telephone.
- Those members of the public wishing to provide testimony during either of the Public Hearings on tomorrow’s agenda are asked to please contact the office of Community Development at (970) 725-3077 for a conference call-in number and passcode.
- People can use the Voter Ballot Dropbox in front of the main Administration Building to submit documents such as tax payments, voter registrations, etc. that will be collected on regular intervals.
- View Press Release
Below is an updated list of County Closures as of 7:00 p.m. on March 16th.
- EGSD/WGSD: Closed from 3/16 - 4/5
- Mountain Valley Christian: Closed from 3/16 - 4/5
- Winter Park Christian: Closed from 3/16 - 4/5
- Fraser Rec Center: Closed from 3/16 - 4/5
- Devil’s Thumb: Closed through May 22nd
- The Foundry: Closed through April 5th
- Winter Park Ski Area: Closed
- Granby Ranch: Closed
- Grand Lake Center: Closed
- Granby Rec District: Closed
- 9 News Health Fairs Granby/Kremmiling: Canceled
- Library District: No Programs
- City Market: Reduced Hours to 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Grand County Municipal Court: Canceled for 3/19
- Snow Mountain Ranch: Closed through 4/6
- Grand County DMV: Closed (Services available online)
- Grand County Government Buildings and Facilities: Closed to the Public
- Seating at Bars, Restaurants: Closed
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis Monday ordered the closure of dine-in services at restaurants and bars throughout the state as he continues efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus. He also ordered gyms, casinos and theaters to close. The order, effective immediately, allows restaurants to continue to serve meals for delivery or carry-out, but not for in-person dining. Polis said it would last for at least 30 days. Grand County Public Health and the Office of Emergency Management will be providing more information tomorrow morning about how this will be enforced in our communities.
- Please see the attached Press Release regarding the matter.
- See Official Order from Colorado Department of Public Health
Thank you all for your efforts and understanding through these difficult times. Together, #WeAreGrand and together we will get through this.
March 16, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
Message to the Public Regarding COVID-19
Grand County Public Health and the Office of Emergency Management continue to request social distancing among all residents and visitors.
As of today, there are no cases of confirmed Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the county.
If you are ill or concerned you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please reach out to your primary care provider for guidance. Testing is available in Grand County.
The best practice for all respiratory diseases including COVID-19 is to isolate yourself from others, practice good handwashing, clean hard surfaces on a regular basis and treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications. To ensure the health and safety of all members of the community, we request that you do not stockpile over-the-counter medications as supplies are limited. In the case that supplies become critically low, Public Health Officials may restrict dispensing.
If you become short of breath or are having a difficult time breathing, contact your primary care provider or call 9-1-1.
Up-to-date information can be found at CO.GRAND.CO.US. For questions, call 970-725-3803 or email jic@co.grand.co.us
March 16, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
Business, School Closures & Reduced Hours , Grand County
EGSD/WGSD - 3/16-4/5
Mountain Valley Christian - 3/16-4/5
Winter Park Christian - 3/16-4/5
Fraser Rec Center - 3/16-4/5
Devil’s Thumb - Closed through May 22nd
The Foundry - Closed through April 5th
Winter Park Ski Area - Closed
Granby Ranch - Closed
Grand Lake Center - Closed
Granby Rec District - Closed
9 News Health Fairs Granby/Kremmiling - Canceled
Library District - No Programs
City Market - 7am - 8pm
Municipal Court - Canceled for 3/19/2020
March 15, 2020 at 9:45 p.m.
Evening Update
There are currently no active cases of COVID-19 Grand County and Public Health is actively monitoring for potential cases within the county. If you become ill, call your healthcare provider and they will assess your situation to determine the best course of action for you. Due to the unknown availability of testing kits, there are currently no mobile or drive-through testing sites in Grand County.
Public Health officials recommend the following guidance:
- Wash your hands with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer when you can’t use soap/water.
- Keep your hands away from your face
- Cover your cough
- Stay home when you are sick
- If you are concerned that you may have the virus, call your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action
- Practice social distancing
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines social distancing as it applies to COVID-19 as “remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.”
For current information on Grand County’s response to COVID-19, sign up for “NotifyMe” on the Grand County website www.co.grand.co.us. Click on the “COVID-19 Alerts” banner to read the latest updates and to register for COVID-19 email and/or text alerts. Information will also be posted on the Grand County Public Health Facebook page: GC Public Health Facebook. The Joint Information Center will be open to answer calls from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. starting Monday morning. 970-725-3803
March 14, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
Winter Park Resort to Suspend all Operations until Further Notice
Below is a Statement from Winter Park Resort -
After careful thought and deliberation in the face of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, and in what we believe is in the best interest of our guests, employees and local communities, Winter Park Resort will suspend operations starting the morning of Sunday, March 15, until further notice. All operations will be closed with limited exceptions. Lodging will remain open in limited capacity to provide services for those who are here. Limited food and beverage will be available for those guests as well. Rentals and Ski + Ride School will also be open to process refunds only.
We will work directly with our guests in canceling their visit and will provide refunds to those who have hotel and other bookings during this closure period. We anticipate heavy call volume over the next several days and appreciate guests’ patience as we work hard to respond to all inquiries. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this short notice will undoubtedly create.
March 14, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.
East and West Grand School Districts Closed Through April 5th
After thoughtful discussion between East Grand and West Grand School District Administrations, they have determined that schools will be closed to students through April 5th.
Press Release: East Grand | West Grand
Colorado currently has 101 cases of COVID-19 and community spread is evident.
Grand County does not have any cases of COVID-19 at this time. Colorado state and local public health agencies are working to limit and slow potential spread of this disease.
As on March 12th, Senior Nutrition meals are being suspended to help keep our most vulnerable residents as healthy and safe as possible. If you are in need of food assistance, please contact Grand County Senior Nutrition at 970-725-3288.
Per the statement by Governor Polis on March 13th please plan to postpone events that will have an attendance of more than 250 people.
If you need to speak with someone about a question you have in regards to COVID-19 or need answers in different languages, please call the Colorado Help Line at 303-389-1687 or toll-free at 1-877-462-2911. You can also email cohelp@RMPDC.org
We advise you to take actions to protect yourself and those you love through social distancing, washing your hands, and covering your cough or sneeze. We would also encourage you to share accurate information with neighbors, friends, and co-workers, especially people who may have difficulty receiving or understanding the information.
If you feel you have been exposed to COVID-19, please call your local health care provider for guidance.
March 14, 2020 at 5:45 p.m.
COVID-19 Update
Grand County Public Health was notified of an individual that spent time in Grand County between the dates of February 24th and February 28th, who later tested positive for Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) on March 11th, 2020. The individual is not a resident of the county. Public Health is investigating significant contacts and places where the individual spent time during their visit to Grand County. At this time, only one significant contact has become symptomatic within the onset timeframe and is currently under investigation. Others that may have come in contact with this individual that are not symptomatic are past the 14 day onset period and are considered not at risk for developing COVID-19.
As of 4:30pm, Grand County still has no confirmed positive cases of COVID-19.
March 13, 2020 at 12:45 p.m.
UPDATED: Guidance Regarding the Hosting, Postponement or Cancellation of Local Public Events and Gatherings.
As of 12:00 PM on March 13, 2020, Colorado currently has 72 cases of COVID-19 and community spread is evident.
Grand County does not have any cases of COVID-19 at this time. Colorado state and local public health agencies are working to limit and slow potential spread of this disease, and all Coloradans can help.
As on March 12th, Senior Nutrition meals are being suspended to help keep our most vulnerable residents as healthy and safe as possible. If you are in need of food assistance, please contact Grand County Senior Nutrition at 970-725-3288 and we will see what options are available for you.
Per the statement by Governor Polis on March 13th please plan to postpone events that will have an attendance of more than 250 people.
See Updated Document
People who have general questions about coronavirus disease 2019 can call CO HELP at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911 for answers in many languages. Email COHELP@RMPDC.org for answers in English.
Coloradans can also visit the CDC and CDPHE websites for more information on best practices.
For more information and recommendations regarding how you can help limit the spread of COVID-19 in Grand County, visit Grand County Public Health or follow Grand County Public Health, Grand County Office of Emergency Management, and CDPHE on Facebook.
Please note we will keep you posted with new information as soon as we have it. The CDPHE website states: “We are doing everything possible to limit and slow the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and it’s hard to predict exactly how COVID-19 may affect our communities. What we’re seeing in other areas tells us that once spread is detected in a community, numbers can increase quickly. Given that, our recommendations may change just as quickly.”
March 13, 2020 at 12:05 p.m.
Colorado COVID-19 Case Summary
This represents the number of people tested, NOT the number of tests conducted. Numbers are changing very quickly. We will do our best to update them as soon as possible.
- Presumptive Positive: 72
- Negative: 524
- Total number of people tested: Appx. 600
*All positive cases are presumptive positive, but this status does not delay public health response. The CDC provides official confirmation.
Presumptive positive cases by county of residence
- Adams: 3
- Arapahoe County: 7
- Denver County: 13
- Douglas County: 3
- Eagle County: 14
- El Paso County: 2
- Gunnison County: 3
- Jefferson County: 6
- Larimer County: 1
- Pitkin County: 1
- Pueblo: 1
- Summit County: 2
- Weld: 2
- Out of state visitors - 14 (Currently located in these counties:)
- Pitkin - 9
- Eagle - 2
- Routt - 1
- Waiting on information - 2
People who have general questions about coronavirus disease 2019 can call CO HELP at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911 for answers in many languages. Email COHELP@RMPDC.org for answers in English.
Coloradans can also visit the CDC and CDPHE websites for more information on best practices.
For more information and recommendations regarding how you can help limit the spread of COVID-19 in Grand County, visit Grand County Public Health or follow Grand County Public Health, Grand County Office of Emergency Management, and CDPHE on Facebook.
Please note we will keep you posted with new information as soon as we have it. The CDPHE website states: “We are doing everything possible to limit and slow the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and it’s hard to predict exactly how COVID-19 may affect our communities. What we’re seeing in other areas tells us that once spread is detected in a community, numbers can increase quickly. Given that, our recommendations may change just as quickly.”
March 13, 2020 at 11:05 a.m.
Nurse Lines to Utilize - Colorado
Download and view document
Updated: COVID-19 Planning for Schools and Child Care
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
Download and view full document
Teach children and staff to:
- Cough or sneeze into their sleeved arm or cover their nose and mouth with a tissue. Throw away the tissue after they use it and wash hands
- Avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth
- Wash their hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after they cough or sneeze; a 60 % alcohol-based hand rub can be used if soap and water are not nearby
- Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with others
- Increase deep cleaning to at least 2 times per week and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces like doorknobs, tables, drinking fountains and handrails. For instructions regarding disinfecting see here. For an additional list of recommended products visit: Novel-Coronavirus-Fighting-Products-List
- Family style serving should be avoided if possible. It is recommended that the school and child care facility staff prepare and serve snacks and meals using gloves.
- If napping mats are used, children should be kept at least 6 feet apart if possible and mats should be cleaned after each use.
Teachers, Caregivers, and Families
- Practice control measures listed above at home and in group care settings.
- If a child or staff member develops symptoms associated with COVID-19, report to the staff member designated (health staff, school nurse, or Childcare Director) by the child care program or school.
School Staff and Local Public Health Agency
- The school staff notified about a child or staff member becoming symptomatic will inform designated school personnel with decision-making authority.
- Designated school personnel with decision-making authority will, in collaboration with the registered school nurse, coordinate next steps with Local Public Health Agency (LPHA). find-your-local-public-health-agency
- LPHAs and state health department will determine next steps in collaboration with the school administration and school nurse.
March 13, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Cleaning and Environmental Considerations
Grand County Public Health recommendations for schools, restaurants, hotels, businesses, and households.
View Full Document
Colorado COVID-19 Case Summary
COVID-19 Test Result Overview
This represents the number of people tested, NOT the number of tests conducted. Numbers are changing very quickly. We will do our best to update them as soon as possible.
Presumptive Positive: 49 (*includes Indetermtreated that we treat as a positive)
Negative: 390
Total number of people tested: Appx. 430
*All positive cases are presumptive positive, but this status does not delay public health response. The CDC provides official confirmation.
Presumptive positive cases by county of residence
- Arapahoe County: 3
- Jefferson County: 4
- Pitkin County: 10
- Larimer County: 1
- Gunnison County: 3
- Denver County: 9
- Douglas County: 3
- Eagle County: 11
- El Paso County: 1
- Summit County: 1
- Adams: 3
View Presumptive positive case details
People who have general questions about coronavirus disease 2019 can call CO HELP at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911 for answers in many languages. Email COHELP@RMPDC.org for answers in English.
Coloradans can also visit the CDC and CDPHE websites for more information on best practices.
For more information and recommendations regarding how you can help limit the spread of COVID-19 in Grand County, visit Grand County Public Health or follow Grand County Public Health, Grand County Office of Emergency Management, and CDPHE on Facebook.
Please note we will keep you posted with new information as soon as we have it. The CDPHE website states: “We are doing everything possible to limit and slow the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and it’s hard to predict exactly how COVID-19 may affect our communities. What we’re seeing in other areas tells us that once spread is detected in a community, numbers can increase quickly. Given that, our recommendations may change just as quickly.”
March 12, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.
COVID-19 Fact Sheet
Colorado currently has 45 cases of COVID-19.
Grand County does not have any cases of COVID-19 at this time. Colorado state and local public health agencies are working to limit and slow potential spread of this disease, and all Coloradans can help. We advise you to stay informed with reliable sources of information, take everyday actions to protect yourself and those you love, and share accurate information with neighbors, friends, and co-workers, especially people who may have difficulty receiving or understanding the information.
Stay informed: Find the most up-to-date info here.
Read and Download Full Fact Sheet
Guidance Regarding the Hosting, Postponement or Cancellation of Local Public Events and Gatherings.
GRAND COUNTY – In response to numerous inquiries from the public, Grand County Public Health is issuing this guidance document regarding the hosting, postponement or cancellation of local public events and gatherings.
As of 11:30 AM Thursday, March 12th, There have been no presumptive positive cases of Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) in Grand County, Colorado.
With confirmed disease activity in nearby counties in Colorado, Grand County Public Health is encouraging local organizations to take COVID-19 transmission prevention into account when planning or hosting community gatherings. However, at this time, each individual organization should make its own final decision that best suits its particular circumstances and attendees.
If you are planning an event see GCPH’s current recommendations here
March 12, 2020 at 1:45 p.m.
State EOC Update: Governor Declares Emergency
On March 10, 2020 Governor Jared Polis declared a state of emergency at 9:30 a.m. The state of emergency provides:
- access to resources
- legal flexibility
- protect our most vulnerable communities
- better contain the outbreak
More Information about what a State of Emergency means for Colorado
National Update: President Addresses the Nation
On March 11, 2020 at 9:02 p.m. President Trump addressed the Nation about COVID-19
THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans: Tonight, I want to speak with you about our nation’s unprecedented response to the coronavirus outbreak that started in China and is now spreading throughout the world.
Today, the World Health Organization officially announced that this is a global pandemic.
We have been in frequent contact with our allies, and we are marshalling the full power of the federal government and the private sector to protect the American people.
This is the most aggressive and comprehensive effort to confront a foreign virus in modern history. I am confident that by counting and continuing to take these tough measures, we will significantly reduce the threat to our citizens, and we will ultimately and expeditiously defeat this virus.
Read Full Remarks
Global WHO Update: Director Declares Pandemic
On March 11, 2020 WHO Director-General’s opening remarks at the media briefing on COVID-19.
"In the past two weeks, the number of cases of COVID-19 outside China has increased 13-fold, and the number of affected countries has tripled. There are now more than 118,000 cases in 114 countries, and 4,291 people have lost their lives. Thousands more are fighting for their lives in hospitals. In the days and weeks ahead, we expect to see the number of cases, the number of deaths, and the number of affected countries climb even higher. WHO has been assessing this outbreak around the clock and we are deeply concerned both by the alarming levels of spread and severity, and by the alarming levels of inaction. We have therefore made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic..."
Read Full Update
March 6, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
Joint Press Release.
Grand County Office of Emergency Management, Grand County Public Health Department, Grand County EMS, Denver Health Winter Park Medical Center and Middle Park Health
Yesterday the Grand County Public Health Department reported a suspected case of Novel Coronavirus in Grand County. Upon further assessment and treatment of the patient, Novel Coronavirus has been ruled out as a possible diagnosis. Health care workers in close contact with this patient wore appropriate personal protective equipment; therefore the risk of possible transmission was low. There is no danger to the general public.
Middle Park Health’s affiliate, Centura Health, has put together an information sheet on myths about Coronavirus. You can see that here in this article as well as Middle Park Health’s Facebook page.
If you are sick and you suspect you are contagious with the Novel Coronavirus, please stay at home except to seek medical care and call Grand County Public Health for advice on appropriate actions. If you feel you need to seek medical care, please call the facility in which you will be seeking medical care to discuss appropriate actions first before arriving. For information on how to keep yourself safe, you can visit the Grand County Public Health Department website for more information.
Grand County OEM, Grand County Public Health Department, Grand County EMS, Denver Health Winter Park Medical Center, Middle Park Health, and other key stakeholders are working closely together to ensure we are prepared to safely care for our residents and visitors of, and to, our community.
Please visit the Office of Emergency Management’s Facebook page and/or website for information regarding the Novel Coronavirus and current updates.
March 5, 2020 - 8:00 pm
Suspected Novel Coronavirus in Grand County.
A patient suspected of carrying Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) was transported from Grand County, CO to a medical facility on the Front Range for testing on Thursday, March 5, 2020. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) currently oversees testing for COVID-19 and will notify appropriate entities in Grand County should the case be confirmed. We expect to know more on Friday, March 6, 2020. If the case is confirmed, we will work collaboratively with CDPHE to share that information with the public as soon as possible.
Earlier today: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment confirmed that a man visiting Summit County tested “presumptive” positive for COVID-19. A presumptive case means testing was done at the state level and will need to be verified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDPHE officials said the state is acting on all "presumptive" cases as if they were confirmed, "because a quick response is essential to minimize the spread of the virus."
For more information and recommendations regarding how you can help limit the spread of COVID-19 in Grand County, visit Grand County Public Health or follow Grand County Public Health, Grand County Office of Emergency Management, and CDPHE on Facebook.
Please note we will keep you posted with new information as soon as we have it. The CDPHE website states: “We are doing everything possible to limit and slow the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado.
This is a rapidly changing situation, and it’s hard to predict exactly how COVID-19 may affect our communities. What we’re seeing in other areas tells us that once spread is detected in a community, numbers can increase quickly. Given that, our recommendations may change just as quickly.”
March 5, 2020 - 3:00 pm
What Grand County is doing to be prepared for the Novel Coronavirus.
Even though there have been no cases of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Grand County or Colorado, and though the immediate risk to most people is low, Grand County Public Health, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and our health and medical partners are prepared.
Since the start of the outbreak, Grand County has been taking a proactive approach working closely with CDC, CDPHE and other partners to:
- Provide timely and accurate information about the outbreak to our community.
- Share guidance with health care providers so they know how to safely care for people with possible COVID-19 infection.
- Support local hospitals and other health and medical partners with requests for information, resources, and logistics.
- Actively monitor the situation and refine our response and recovery plans to minimize the impact of COVID-19 should it occur in our community.
Grand County Public Health maintains a Public Health Emergency Operations Plan. The Grand County Office of Emergency Management maintains a County-wide all-hazards Emergency Operations Plan, which states that Grand County will utilize the incident command system to allow for enhanced and coordinated response efforts and acquire resources and supplies.
To stay updated visit the Grand County Public Health webpage or follow Grand County Public Health, Grand County Office of Emergency Management, and CDPHE on Facebook.
February 28, 2020
Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)
Grand County Public Health is working closely with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Centers of Disease Control (CDC) to monitor progress and risk of the novel coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China.
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are associated with a respiratory illness that results in fever, cough and shortness of breath. These viruses spread through coughing or sneezing, much like the flu.
Some coronaviruses are common and regularly cause illness in the U.S. in the fall and winter. There are many types of coronaviruses currently circulating in Colorado and the U.S. that cause respiratory illness. These illnesses are NOT COVID-19. Symptoms appear within 2-14 days after exposure.
We do not know yet how severe 2019 Novel Coronavirus is compared to other coronaviruses or how easily it can spread between humans.
There has been limited person to person transmission in the United States. People who have had close contact with someone with a confirmed diagnosis of 2019 novel coronavirus persons are at greater risk of infection.
Currently, in Colorado there are NO cases of COVID-19. The risk for Coloradans is low at this time.
People who are at the greatest risk for this virus are:
- People who recently traveled from China
- Close contact with people that have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
As with other respiratory viruses, it is recommended that people protect themselves and others by practicing everyday actions:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub when soap and water is not available.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with anyone that is experiencing symptoms of illness.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Avoid touching your face.