Coronavirus and travel

The risk of Coronavirus Disease, or COVID-19, remains relatively low in Kansas according to the latest update from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Kansas has no confirmed cases and no persons under investigation for the virus. People don’t remain in one place in our world, though, so it’s important to know current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, or CDC, on travel.

CDC recommends that travelers avoid mainland China, South Korea, and reconsider cruise ship travel to or within Asia (not including Hong Kong, Macau, or the island of Taiwan). Country-specific travel health notices for coronavirus are available.

Here is more information from the CDC:
CDC does not currently recommend that the general public or travelers wear facemasks or respirators to prevent spread novel coronavirus if they are healthy.

Although facemasks are commonly worn in many countries, little evidence supports their use in a community setting. People sick with respiratory symptoms (coughing, sneezing), however, can consider wearing a facemask to prevent the spread of germs to others. This is especially important if seeking care in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or clinic. The use of facemasks is crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).

Take everyday preventive actions to help slow the spread of respiratory illnesses, including influenza, which continues to be highly active in our area:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Do not travel when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

If you travel and do not feel well after your trip, call your doctor and report where you traveled and your symptoms.

Community HealthCare System is receiving CDC and KDHE guidance and is monitoring the situation closely. We recommend that anyone planning to travel monitor the CDC website for updates. Find novel coronavirus frequently asked questions.

-- Karen Elliott, RN, Infection Prevention and Cardiac Stress Testing nurse