News Releases

Northeast Ohio Hospitals, Public Health Maintain Vigilance on Coronavirus

Hospitals and public health organizations in Northeast Ohio are remaining vigilant as cases of coronavirus are emerging in the U.S. At press time, five cases of the illness have been diagnosed in four states, all in patients who have traveled from Wuhan, China. Two individuals in southern Ohio are among several dozen more nationwide who are being tested for the virus.

Hospitals already have procedures in place to actively monitor the development of flu, which includes coronavirus. And as an outcome of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, patient assessments include inquiring about recent travel. In addition, local public health entities are in regular communication with state health officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The CDC has posted a variety of materials on its website, including information about the virus, guidance for travelers, and frequently asked questions. Information is also available for healthcare providers. This includes recommendations for evaluating patients who may be at risk for having contracted coronavirus as well as infection prevention and control practices.

Communication pathways between hospitals, public health and other organizations that are in place thanks to ongoing disaster preparedness activities are being called upon to disseminate information as the situation is monitored. Beginning this week, the Ohio Department of Health will be holding biweekly conference calls on the issue, and notification about the calls has been distributed by The Center to hospital emergency management and infection control professionals and public information officers.

The Center’s hospital membership can expect to be kept informed about any new developments.

MORE: For more on local emergency preparedness activities, contact us.

TWEETABLE: Northeast Ohio hospitals and public health remain vigilant as they monitor the development of coronavirus.