Public Safety Alert: Coronavirus Outbreak Update

Thursday, February 13, 2020
updated March 12, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to monitor the coronavirus outbreak, now referred to as COVID-19, first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.

• Global case statistics (There has been an uptick in cases in South Korea, Iran and Italy recently.) 

The first case in the United States was announced on Jan. 21, 2020, in Washington State. Visit the state-specific Department of Health websites for statistics for your state.
 

Where can I find the latest information?

For the most up-to-date information, visit www.cdc.gov/COVID19.

Find additional details at:

• www.tricare.mil/coronavirus
• www.health.mil/coronavirus
• www.usa.gov/coronavirus
• www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus

Why are people so worried about coronavirus?

This is a new virus, and it is creating great concern in the community. There is not a vaccine for this novel virus yet, and we do not have a specific medicine to treat it. An effective vaccine is most likely 12–18 months away. Also, the coronavirus is contagious – similar to the flu. Most people who become infected with the coronavirus have a mild illness or may not even have any symptoms.

What can I do now to protect myself and decrease the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses like the flu?

• Stay informed. 
  • Review CDC guidelines at www.cdc.gov/COVID19.  
• Wash your hands. 
  • Washing your hands is the most effective means of not getting infected and preventing the spread of most viral illnesses.
  • Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty and immediately after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. 
• Practice good hygiene.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your face, especially your nose, mouth and eyes.
  • Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces, such as handles, countertops and objects frequently and thoroughly.
  • Avoid close contact with other sick people.
• Get all recommended vaccinations, including the flu vaccine.
• Only wear a facemask if a healthcare professional recommends it. 
  • The CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. 
  • Learn more at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.

If you are concerned you may have COVID-19 or you have been in contact with someone with the virus:

• Seek medical advice.
  • Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room. 
  • Tell your doctor about recent travel and your symptoms. 
  • If your primary doctor is not available, TRICARE beneficiaries can go to any TRICARE-authorized urgent care center or if necessary, an emergency department.
  • If you need health advice, the Military Health System’s Nurse Advice Line is available 24/7 by phone, web chat or video chat to eligible TRICARE beneficiaries. 
• Avoid contact with others and do not travel while sick.
• Contact your local public health department as soon as practical. 
• Learn more at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html. 

Does TRICARE cover telemedicine?

Some providers may offer telemedicine as an alternative to coming into the office. TRICARE covers medically-necessary telemedicine services when all criteria are met. Learn more at www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices.  
 

What can I do while I’m sick to prevent the spread to others?

• If you are sick, the best way to prevent illness from spreading is to avoid exposing others. Stay home except to get medical care, and separate yourself from other people and animals in your home. 
• Learn more at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html.

For those planning travel to abroad to affected countries:

• View the CDC’s current travel notice and FAQs.

For travelers already in affected countries where the virus may be present:

• View the CDC's current travel notice and FAQs.

For travelers returning from areas with the virus:

United States residents who travel to other countries where this outbreak has occurred may be screened upon re-entry to the US. 

Certain military installations have been selected as potential U.S. quarantine sites.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html