BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — According to Massachusetts health officials, the state's first case of Coronavirus has been confirmed in a man in Boston.
Here's what we know so far:
The Patient
- A male is in his 20's who lives in Boston.
- He recently returned from a trip to Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak.
- He immediately sought medical attention for the self-reported symptoms.
- He has been isolated and is "doing well," according to state Public Health Commissioner Monical Bharel.
What Are Local Health Officials Doing?
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health has established an Incident Command Structure to facilitate regular dissemination of information from federal and state partners.
- The department has launched a new website with up-to-date information on the status of confirmed cases.
- All state healthcare providers, hospitals, and Emergency Medical services have been issues clinical advisories.
- There are calls schedules with key health partners including local boards of health.
What Do Officials Advise?
- "Right now we are not asking Boston residents to do anything differently," Boston Public Health Commission Executive Director Rita Nieves said. "The risk to the general public remains low."
- As a precaution, residents should be washing hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover any cough and sneezes.
- Stay home when feeling sick.
- Anyone who has recently traveled should be aware of developing a fever, cough or shortness of breath, and in severe cases pneumonia (fluid in the lungs.)
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