On March 11, 2020, the first COVID-19 case was identified in the state of Wyoming.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some of which cause the common cold in people and others that circulate among animals. This is a new virus and new viruses need special attention. There are simply some things we don t know about COVID-19, but the current available information shows that over 80% who contract the virus experience mild symptoms only and that elderly with underlying chronic diseases are most at risk for severe disease.

The aim is to contain and slow the spread of the virus so that the healthcare system does not get overwhelmed. In order to best care for those who get severely ill from this disease, the healthcare system will need to focus efforts and resources on the severely ill vs. those with mild symptoms.

The symptoms reported with this disease are familiar to all of us: fever, cough and shortness of breath. We know there are common-sense steps that can help prevent these kinds of illnesses from spreading:
Avoid close contact with sick people.

While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
Stay home if sick.
Cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60 percent alcohol.
No available vaccine or anti-viral medicine. So, stay at home, rest, push fluids, Over the Counter Tylenol and Ibuprofen for fever.

Find COVID-19 information and updates from the Wyoming Department of Health at: https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/infectious-disease-epidemiology-unit/disease/novel- coronavirus/

Find COVID-19 information and updates from the CDC website: cdc.gov Thank you.
Albany Community Health Clinic
Educational Health Center of Wyoming

March 12, 2020