Should you wear a mask? And other facts about COVID-19

What is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?

CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in almost 70 locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

Only the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health labs are authorized to provide testing for COVID-19 in the U.S.

All tests have to be run by the CDC through your local health department. If you are experiencing the symptoms below, please refer to this website for the Austin Public Health Department: http://www.austintexas.gov/department/health or call 512-972-5555.

Ten things to do to avoid getting sick

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Stay home when you are sick
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or bent elbow (if tissue is unavailable), then throw the tissue in the trash
Get your flu shot
Practice social distancing by keeping a 1-3 foot barrier between others when in conversation
Quarantine yourself for 14 days if presenting with symptoms
Avoid non-essential travel to the following countries: China, Italy, Iran, Japan and South Korea
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces especially your phone and steering wheel
Only go to the hospital if you are exhibiting symptoms and are in need of immediate medical attention and testing (If unsure, call your doctor first.)