Learn More About Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

NOTICE

Please note there are NO walk-ins for COVID-19 testing available at Merced County Department of Public Health.
All testing MUST be scheduled through your Primary Care Physician.

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Updates / Press Releases

This is an evolving situation. More information will be distributed as it is available.

 Stay at Home Order   Stay at Home FAQs 

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For the most up to date information, please visit the CDC’s website.

Additional information available at the CSAC Website

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The Merced County Department of Public Health is closely following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and California Department of Public Health on the novel (new) nCoV virus that is causing an outbreak of pneumonia illness. Coronavirus is a type of virus that causes diseases of varying severities, ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory disease.

Persons who have recently traveled to China, Japan, South Korea, Iran, or Italy, or who have had contact with a person with possible COVID-19 infection and have the above symptoms should call their local health department or health care provider immediately.

Do not go to your provider’s office without calling ahead. Do not call 911 for suspected COVID-19 unless you are having a medical emergency.

Watch an Informational Video from the Merced County Public Health Officer, Dr. Ken Bird

Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Illness

At-Risk Groups

  • Older Adults
  • Individuals with serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems

How is Coronavirus Spread

  • Coughing and sneezing
  • Close personal contact, such as touching shaking hands
  • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands

Novel coronavirus is new, and we are continuing to learn about spreading  patterns and incubation periods

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment recommended for the 2019-nCoV infection. People with symptoms should contact their providers.

Currently, there is no vaccine available to protect against 2019-nCoV.

Key Points

  • Novel Coronavirus is a new virus that hasn’t been identified before in humans.
  • Coronavirus can spread through close personal contact, or by touching an object of surface with the virus on it.
  • Use prevention measures that work to prevent other respiratory infections to prevent novel Coronavirus.
  • The Merced County Department of Public Health is taking steps to prevent the spread of Coronavirus in Merced County.

Information for Healthcare Professionals

Visit: CDC Coronavirus Information

Additional Information on Coronavirus