TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Realtors who work with international buyers – and even those who don’t – should take precautions to Avoid a new coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, China. The coronavirus doesn’t seem to be in Fla. yet – but victims may spread the disease before any of their symptoms appear.
For now, the immediate health risk to the general public is considered low, according to a virus update sent to staff by the University of Florida (UF) – and no confirmed cases have been diagnosed in the state so far. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) will closely monitor the situation and provide updates.
University of Florida officials also are closely monitoring updates related to a novel coronavirus as a second confirmed case has been reported in the U.S. connected to an outbreak in Wuhan, China.
The CDC labels the new virus a public health concern based on current information. However, it escalated its health warning to a level 3 as the coronavirus continues to spread and recommended that Americans avoid all nonessential travel to Wuhan.
UF’s advice to avoid the virus
If you’re concerned that you may have novel coronavirus, see your health care provider immediately.
Symptoms may be flu-like, ranging from mild to serious, and include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Person-to-person spread is occurring, although it’s unclear exactly how it is transmitted and how easily the virus spreads between people.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment recommended for this coronavirus and no vaccine to prevent this virus. According to the CDC, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to it.
Precautionary steps
Everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- 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.
© 2020 Florida Realtors®
Reprinted with permission Florida Realtors. All rights reserved.
