Update on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

 
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3/17/2020

This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and updated information will be provided as it becomes available.
The information on this page was last updated on 3/17/2020.

COVID-19 Update Header, with red background of rendered virus
ALERTThere are 11 presumptive positive COVID-19 cases in Mecklenburg County.

Mecklenburg County Public Health (MCPH) considers novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to be a very serious public health threat and has declared a State of Emergency. The declaration allows the County access to state and federal funds to offset the costs of fighting the pandemic. 

Follow the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) for statewide information.

What You Need To Know

An outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel, or new coronavirus (2019 Novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19) has been identified. The illness was first detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China but has since spread to other countries. Adults 65 and older and people with severe medical conditions including heart, lung, or kidney disease are most susceptible to the virus and should avoid crowds and stay home as much as possible. 

The most up to date guidance and information is available on the CDC website.


If you believe you've come into contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) here is how you can determine your risk of contracting the virus.

NO RISK: Waiting by or briefly being in the same room as a person who tested positive for COVID-19 and experiencing symptons (fever, cough, shortness of breath)
LOW RISK: Being in the same room as a person who tested positive for COVID-19 and had symptoms, but you were not within six feet.
MEDIUM RISK: Sustained close contact (10 minutes or longer) within six feet of a person with COVID-19 while presenting symptoms.
HIGH RISK: Close household contacts of people with a confirmed case of COVID-19 are at an elevated risk.

Are you at an Increased risk of infection?

The CDC has identified specific criteria to identify individuals who are at increased risk of infection. Please call your healthcare provider or the public health department at 980-314-9400:

  • If you are at increased risk due to travel or potential exposure and you are experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
  • If you feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing and you have had close contact with someone who is suspected to have Novel Coronavirus within 14 days of when your symptoms started.

Your healthcare professional will work with your local and state’s public health department to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.

Prevention

MCPH recommends the public take the following steps to prevent the spread of ALL respiratory illnesses:

  • Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Get a flu shot, it’s not too late. During this time of year, respiratory illnesses in North Carolina are often caused by infection with influenza or viruses that cause the common cold.

Still have questions? View Frequently Asked Questions
or call the Mecklenburg County Public Health Hotline at 980-314-9400.