The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is becoming a hot topic. Many US business owners, safety managers, and EHS professionals are wondering if this a safety concern for their workers. Here are links with information to answer some of those questions.

The Who, What, Where, and Why of 2019-nCoV are covered on the CDC’s Frequently Asked Questions and Answers page.

The CDC currently recommends the following:

While the immediate risk of this new virus to the American public is believed to be low at this time, everyone can do their part to help us respond to this emerging public health threat:

• For everyone: It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season and CDC recommends getting vaccinated, taking everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.
• For healthcare professionals:
  •     Be on the look-out for people with travel history to Wuhan, China and fever and respiratory symptoms.
  •     If you are a healthcare professional caring a 2109-nCoV patient, please take care of yourself and follow recommended infection control procedures.
• For people who may have 2019-nCoV infection: Please follow CDC guidance on how to reduce the risk of spreading your illness to others.
• For travelers: Stay up to date with CDC’s travel health notices related to this outbreak.

For additional information, check out the resources below:

• OSHA’s page on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
• The CDC’s page on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), Wuhan, China
• The CDC’s recommended Sequence for Putting On and Removing PPE
• 3M Technical Bulletin on 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (Download)
• Moldex Workplace PPE Resources