Corona Virus

As the situation evolves in Thurston County information on this page is updated. Last update 3/12/20.

About Coronavirus

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that usually cause mild respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold. Some coronaviruses have caused more severe illness, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndromes (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that was not identified in humans before December 2019.

Background on Situation

This virus emerged in Hubei Province, China in December 2019. The virus is spreading from person-to-person and cases are confirmed in the United States and a number of other countries.  The risk for COVID-19 is not connected to race, ethnicity or nationality. Sharing accurate information, and new information as it emerges, can prevent misinformation from spreading.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus strain and was recently identified in China. COVID-19 spreads from person-to-person and is a health concern because little is known about it. COVID-19 has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia in some people. Currently, there is no vaccine available to prevent COVID-19 infections. 

You can take steps to prevent the spread of a range of diseases like COVID-19 by doing the following things:

• Wash hands often with soap and water. If this is not available, use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
• Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.