The outbreak of a new coronavirus — COVID-19 — that originated in Wuhan, China in December and has since spread internationally to multiple countries, including the U.S. Columbus Public Health is reportedly closely monitoring the situation in an effort to prevent the spread of the infectious disease in Columbus and Worthington.
There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio and no people under investigation in Columbus or Worthington. Columbus Public Health and the Ohio Department of Health are currently monitoring travelers in other parts of the state that have returned from China. So far, 10 travelers have completed the 14-day self-quarantine and 12 are still being monitored. If an individual becomes ill during their quarantine, local health care systems are set to ensure proper testing and care is provided.
Columbus Public Health recommends a few helpful tips as this situation develops:
- Wash hands, cover coughs and sneezes, stay home when sick and avoid exposure to others who are sick — which also helps to prevent the flu.
- Help prevent the spread of misinformation by learning about COVID-19 — the Center for Disease Control has more information available online. Keep up to date with information, as this is a rapidly evolving situation.
- Help fight stigma and fear: You cannot tell if someone is at risk for spreading COVID-19 based on how they look. Be respectful.
Stay up-to-date on local information regarding COVID-19 by visiting www.columbus.gov/coronavirus.