Influenza More Of A Risk Than Coronavirus: Health Officials

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — Even though the 2019 coronavirus has generated alarm among people, Anne Arundel County Health Officer Nilesh Kalyanaraman, M.D. reminds residents that influenza is more of a concern right now.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Health has been collaborating with county, state and federal agencies, hospitals and health care providers to utilize existing plans and refined procedures to assess, investigate and manage any suspected or confirmed cases and their contacts. As of Jan. 31, there is no confirmed case of 2019-nCoV in Anne Arundel County or Maryland and the risk to county residents is low.

“Communication and collaboration among our own bureaus, and with county agencies and community partners are vital to ensure our residents’ health and safety,” Kalyanaraman said in a statement. “Anne Arundel County has taken steps to be ready for any suspected cases. This includes monitoring the rapidly evolving situation, enhancing screening, and augmenting communication protocols.”

The county health department and local health care providers are continually receiving situational updates as well as guidance on infection prevention and control from the Maryland Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There currently is no vaccine for 2019-nCoV.

Symptoms of the 2019-nCoV disease include mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and difficulty breathing. The CDC is still studying how the virus spreads from person to person. Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread by respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to flu’s spread. There is no evidence that the virus is spread by imported products, packaging, animals or animal products from China.

People who think they may have been exposed to 2019-nCoV should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Anne Arundel County medical facilities should report any person suspected of having 2019-nCoV to the local health department at 410-222-7256. Staff are available to provide guidance to health care workers, help track cases and coordinate further management with the Maryland Department of Health. Hospitals, physician offices, urgent care clinics, retail pharmacy clinics and other health care providers are urged to be vigilant about asking for travel history from patients who have symptoms.

The seasonal flu currently is widespread throughout Maryland and there are things people can do to help prevent the flu: wash hands frequently; cover coughs and sneezes; stay home when sick; and get a yearly flu vaccine. Free flu shots for anyone six months of age and older are available by appointment at the health department's Parole Center (410-222-7247) and Glen Burnie Center (410-222-6633).

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