NOTE: This message is being sent to all individuals in our
database due to public health importance, even if you have
unsubscribed from my newsletter mailing list. If have you
unsubscribed from my mailing list you will continue to not
receive weekly newsletter updates.
This morning, we received
a briefing on the recent coronavirus
COVID-19 that began
spreading in people in December. As your State Representative
and a member of the Assembly Committee on Health, I am passing
along this critical information about COVID-19 to aid community
efforts in preventing the spread of this virus.
I am paying close attention to the
critical public health event. As a father, grandfather, guardian
of an Italian exchange student, and your representative, I
recognize that we must come together to communicate and take
united action to promote public health.
Right now, the risk of contracting this virus in Wisconsin is
low. Together, we can ensure that this risk remains low.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that began
spreading among humans in China this past December.
It is a respiratory virus that spreads
when an infected individual sneezes or coughs.
COVID-19 is similar to SARS and MERS in
that it can cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses, such as
pneumonia or bronchitis, in individuals with weakened immune
systems.
What can I do to prevent the spread of viruses like COVID-19?
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Wash your hands.
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Avoid touching your face.
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Cough or sneeze into a tissue.
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Avoid unnecessary physical contact
like shaking hands.
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Stay home if you are sick.
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If you are an employer, ensure sick
employees remain home.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms may include: fever, cough, and
shortness of breath.
What should I do if I think I may have Coronavirus COVID-19?
Call ahead before visiting your doctor. Clearly state that
you are concerned you may have this coronavirus. This will
prevent the spread to others at your health care facility.
If you have recently been to a country or
area (such as the state of Washington) where this coronavirus
has been spreading, please call your health care provider.
Calling ahead will allow the facility to prepare for your visit
and prevent unintentional transmission of the virus to others.
Your health care provider will be able to assess your symptoms
and test you for the virus.
As more information becomes available,
it will be posted online by the Wisconsin Department of Health
Services here:
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/covid-19.htm
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