BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — As the coronavirus continues to spread around the world, public health officials are giving their recommendations on how to prevent the deadly virus.
While officials in Massachusetts say the risk of getting the virus is still low in the state, the community should prepare for an outbreak. Federal officials say the virus is likely to spread.
This comes as health officials are looking into a case of the coronavirus in California, which was the first instance of the virus spreading in America.
Some people in Massachusetts say they are worried about an outbreak, while others are more concerned about the media attention and its impact on the economy.
One resident said its "absolutely" a concern. "I've got to learn more about it in the sense of when it starts and when the spread is, but where it's going to be, but absolutely concerned about it," he said.
"The flu is more deadly than [coronavirus]," another resident said.
Here is the World Health Organization's advice on preventing the virus.
1. Wash your hands
The WHO says that it's best to thoroughly and frequently wash your hands using soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This can kill any viruses that may be on your hands.
2. Stay at least 3 feet away from someone who is coughing or sneezing
This is to avoid the small liquid droplets that spray from someone's nose or mouth when they cough or sneeze. If you're too close, you could breathe in the virus.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Hands can pickup viruses, so it's best to keep them away from your face so that the virus does not make you sick by transferring to your eyes, nose, or mouth.
4. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
It's best to cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue to prevent spraying droplets that contain the virus. It's also best to throw away a used tissue immediately.
5. Seek medical care if you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
Getting treatment for your symptoms early, according to the WHO, helps health care providers to direct you to the right health facility. This is to also help stop the spread of the virus, and will protect you.
6. Stay informed
The WHO says "authorities will have the most up to date information" on whether the coronavirus is spreading in your local are. "They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves," the WHO says.
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