Federal, State and Local Health Agencies Continue to Prepare for Coronavirus

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Ohio Department of Health, and Hamilton County Public Health reports the immediate risk to the general public here in Ohio for contracting the coronavirus remains low, they suggest that now is the time for communities to start preparing.

To stay up to date and informed on official coronavirus developments, sign up for the latest CDC updates here: https://www.cdc.gov/Other/emailupdates/. Below are the CDC’s prevention tips:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, and certainly if your commute includes public transit.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
• Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The purpose of a face mask is to prevent droplets from sneezing and coughing from becoming airborne.

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has opened a call center to answer questions regarding coronavirus (COVID-19). The call center will be open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and can be reached at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

Locally, Hamilton County Public Health, which serves Anderson Township, is a very helpful source of information and updates as they work with federal  and state agencies. Please visit  https://www.hamiltoncountyhealth.org/announcements/corona-virus-information/ to learn more.