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COVID-19: What Older Adults Need to Know

Jay Butler, Deputy Director for Infectious Diseases at CDC, describes preventative measures to help protect older adults from COVID-19. Read more about these tips on People at Higher Risk for serious illness from COVID-19.

What is Coronavirus Disease 2019?

Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19 is a new respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified.  Coronavirus Disease 2019 is a new disease never seen before in humans.  It is different from other human coronaviruses that cause the common cold.

What’s my risk?

While CDC considers this a very serious public health threat, based on current information, the immediate health risk from Coronavirus Disease 2019 is considered low at this time.  This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available.

How to protect myself?

CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including: Avoid close contact with people who are sick; avoid touching eyes, noes, and mouth; wash hand with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

COVID-19 Stop the Spread of Germs

CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including: Avoid close contact with people who are sick; avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth; wash hand with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.