What you need to know about Coronavirus

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) is closely monitoring the outbreak of a novel coronavirus. The virus emerged in Wuhan, China last month and has spread to other countries. As of Jan. 24, there have been two confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States, according to recent news reports. 

Symptoms of coronavirus 

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing

How the virus is transmitted

The illness has caused pneumonia that can be severe especially for people with a weakened immune system, the elderly, or those with underlying respiratory problems. 

Currently, there are no antiviral medications or vaccinations against this virus. This virus is transmitted by respiratory secretions, such as sneezing or coughing. 

Avoidance of sick people and hand washing is your best prevention.  More will be learned about this virus as this outbreak evolves.

The Virus Origin

So far, 26 people in China have died, according to news reports. Chinese authorities restricted travel out of Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak, and surrounding cities to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Air travel and public transportation in and out of these cities have been shut down. The Center for Disease Control has advised avoiding non-essential travel to these areas.

Anyone who has returned from China within the past 14 days and is sick with fever and cough, or difficulty breathing, should seek medical care right away and call ahead to the doctor’s office to inform them of recent travel and symptoms.

CDC Precautions

The CDC suggests the following precautions for anyone traveling to an area where coronavirus is prevalent:

• Avoid contact with sick people.
• Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

This outbreak is evolving rapidly so we are encouraged to check-in with the latest updates from the CDC,. In addition, reference the updated CDC Travel Notice about this outbreak.  

Blue Cross NC and local agencies

Blue Cross NC will be monitoring this outbreak, and its potential impact on members, employees and public health. 

We have customarily been guided by recommendations from the CDC, and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and have partnered with local and state health departments to assure optimal prevention and treatment.

 

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