Coronavirus And New York: 5 Things To Know

NEW YORK — Authorities in New York say they're taking every precaution necessary to ensure residents are protected against the 2019 novel coronavirus, which is being closely monitored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention following an outbreak in China that has spread to the United States.

The new virus, which causes respiratory illness and can spread person-to-person, was first identified in Wuhan, China. As of Friday, the CDC said there are six confirmed cases in the United States, 121 more are awaiting test results and 114 were tested and found negative.

Here are five things to know about coronavirus' risk in New York and how the state is preparing for the potential threat:

1. So far, no cases have been confirmed in New York. As of Thursday, the New York State Department of Health has sent samples from 11 individuals to the CDC for testing for the novel coronavirus, with seven found to be negative and four more still pending. Another case was sent for testing in New York City on Saturday. "While imported cases of coronavirus have been detected in the U.S., the virus is NOT currently spreading through communities in the United States," Dr. Debra Spicehandler, co-chief of Infectious Diseases at Northern Westchester Hospital, said on Patch.

2. State health officials say they are working with local physicians and the CDC on testing any potential cases, having issued a statewide health advisory. The CDC is also recommending that travelers avoid non-essential travel to China and has quarantined a planeload of Americans evacuated from Wuhan. Others such as international students are stuck in China. SEE: 36 Stony Brook U Students Stuck In China Because Of Coronavirus: Report.

Additionally, the state has put out advisories to physicians, alerting them to the latest information regarding the coronavirus and asking them to report any suspected cases.

3. Anyone who has traveled to China and feels sick with fever, cough, or is having difficulty breathing should seek medical care right away. The CDC said symptoms of 2019 coronavirus may appear in as few as two days or could take as long as 14 days after exposure.

"We encourage all New Yorkers to take normal precautions against sickness, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with people who are sick," said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker.

4. Most coronaviruses cause mild respiratory illnesses, similar to the common cold, and a fever. SEE: HV Student Tests Positive For Common Coronavirus Strain. Some can be more severe, such as SARS and MERS, health officials say.

"With this new coronavirus now declared a public health emergency of international concern, it is understandable that residents may be wary. However, there is no reason for people without symptoms to stay home from work or school, or to cancel events," said Sherlita Amler, MD, Westchester County Commissioner of Health.

5. New Yorkers should worry more about the flu. Last week 2,015 New Yorkers were hospitalized with lab-confirmed influenza, up 8 percent from the previous week. So far this season, New York has seen 72,385 confirmed cases, and three children have died.

"I want to remind New Yorkers that it is much more likely that they will be exposed to the influenza virus than to the coronavirus," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. "Take basic precautions against the flu. These measures will also help people avoid coming in contact with the novel coronavirus."