Union County Residents Updated on Coronavirus COVID-19

Recognizing that the new coronavirus COVID-19 may spread in the U.S. and in other countries, the Freeholder Board advises residents to keep up to date with reliable, accurate information about COVID-19, and take steps to prepare if the disease emerges in New Jersey.

“We understand that people are very concerned, but as of today are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Union County or in New Jersey. At this time, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control considers that the immediate health risk to the public is low,” said Freeholder Alexander Mirabella.

“The County’s Office of Public Health is coordinating closely with local, state, and federal health agencies to ensure that the Union County community is informed and prepared in the event that assessment changes,” Mirabella added.

COVID-19 causes symptoms consistent with a respiratory illness such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms have varied from mild to severe.

As with seasonal flu, members of the public can help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and protect themselves, by following widely accepted guidelines for good respiratory hygiene:

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve, not your hands.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

• Stay home if you are sick, and avoid sick people.

In addition, Union County residents with travel plans should review and follow CDC travel advisories, available online at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers.

For a CDC travel advisory specific to China, visit cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china.

Travelers who return home with symptoms are advised to seek health care, and to call ahead so their care provider is prepared to give them a mask if needed.

In the event that Union County residents are advised to stay indoors for a period of time, the standard guidelines for limiting trips outside of the home apply:

• Stock up on a two-week supply of food, water, household supplies, baby care items, and over-the-counter medications, including supplies for any pets.

• Ensure that any necessary prescriptions have been filled.

• Make a plan for caring for family members in your home if needed.

• Plan for extended school and day care closures.

• Talk to your employer about telecommuting.

Additional guidance and links to more resources are available from the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health/cd/topics/ncov.shtml.

Members of the public with questions about COVID-19 can call the New Jersey Department of Health Novel Coronavirus Call Center 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222. The call center is open 24/7 and offers guidance in several languages.

Please note that this number is for the general public only. Clinicians should call their local health department for guidance.

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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