From Augusta Health Press Release: Currently, there is extensive interest in the novel coronavirus identified in China, now with five reports of return travelers to the U.S. with this infection. At the moment, the Shenandoah Valley appears to be a low risk area for seeing this infection. However, due to the uncertainties of viral emerging pathogens, especially respiratory viruses, Augusta Health has taken multiple steps to be prepared in the event that the virus spreads or a return traveler comes to an Augusta Health facility.
Augusta Health staff meets regularly to discuss and drill emergency preparedness, includingemerging pathogens such as coronavirus. The framework is in place to address any emerging pathogen or unknown illness. Because viruses can morph and change, Augusta Health’s approach may change as the situation evolves.
Any suspected cases of coronavirus will be immediately reported to Virginia Department of Public Health.Questions regarding suspected cases or specific patients will be referred to public health offices.Virginia Department of Public Health has developed a novel coronavirus webpage to keep all informed: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/novel-coronavirus/.
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