City Health Department unveils coronavirus information initiative

With no reported coronavirus cases in New York, the city’s Health Department says the risk is low, but they're very prepared in case the virus makes its way to the five boroughs.
Borough President Eric Adams was in Sunset Park Wednesday to inform residents about the virus. Fliers were also distributed around the community in English, Chinese and Spanish out of concern that the public is not getting all the information it needs.
Health officials say the novel coronavirus was first discovered in Wuhan, China in December. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention says tests show it stemmed from an animal market there.
Airports worldwide, including John F. Kennedy International, are screening passengers that arrive from Chinese destinations. Area hospitals say they are prepared to take any patients that might come in with symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath.
Adams met the Chinese-American Planning Council along with medical professionals to provide seniors with tips on prevention. Seniors and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk.
For any residents who have been to China recently and start displaying symptoms, the New York City Health Department recommends for them to call their doctors ahead of time.
The CDC recommends washing hands often with soap and water. Other precautions include avoiding anyone who might be ill and staying home if any symptoms show.
Adams says it is important to inform people now since China is in the middle of the Lunar New Year, a month-long celebration where many people visit family in the Asian country.