San Andreas, CA…State and federal health authorities continue to monitor an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) originating in Wuhan, China in December 2019. The health risk to the general public in Calaveras County and in California remains low. “While there are currently no cases of COVID-19 in Calaveras County, Calaveras Public Health is working closely with local health providers and state health authorities to monitor this outbreak,” said Dr. Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Public Health Officer.

Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses that are common among animals and humans. The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that was not seen in animals or humans before. Since it is a new strain, there is no immunity in the human population. Typically, human coronaviruses cause mild-to-moderate respiratory illnesses. Symptoms are very similar to the flu, including:
 Fever
 Cough
 Shortness of breath
In some cases, COVID-19 can cause more severe respiratory illness.
“Because there is no vaccine available at this time, everyone can do their part by taking actions that help us prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses,” said Dr. Kelaita. Dr. Kelaita asks that the community take the following steps commonly used to help avoid flu:
 Wash your hands often with soap and water.
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
 Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
 Stay home from work or school and limit contact with others if you are sick with
fever and cough.
 Clean surfaces that are touched often, like toys and doorknobs.

The State and Calaveras Public Health will continue to monitor for cases of new
coronavirus and provide updates to the public as needed. For more information visit the
Calaveras Public Health website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com or call 754-6460.