The Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from common colds to more severe diseases in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. Common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. This strain of Coronavirus was first reported in the Wuhan region of China.

COVID-19 can spread from person-to-person and when in close contact (about 6 feet). The spread can occur when an infected person releases respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze and inhaled into the lungs. It may be possible that people can get COVID-19 by touching an infected surface or object and then touch their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. However, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that’s not the main way the virus can spread.

The guidance for avoiding novel Coronavirus is like that for any respiratory virus, such as the flu or common cold:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water (at least 20 seconds) and avoid touching your face. This is a simple, easy and effective way to prevent spreading germs and to help yourself and others stay healthy.
• Stay away from people that are sick.
• Get proper rest and eat healthy.
• Stay home when you’re sick and encourage family, friends and colleagues to do the same.

People of all ages can be infected by COVID-19. However, older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions including blood pressure, asthma, diabetes and heart disease appear to be more vulnerable to the virus.

If people have symptoms and believe to have been exposed to the Coronavirus through travel or contact with someone who has traveled, contact the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) directly at 866-779-6121 or COVID-19@flhealth.gov. If they do decide to seek medical care, they are asked to call their primary care doctor or the facility first so they can prepare for their arrival. 

There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with the virus can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms. Roughly 4 out of 5 of those infected experience only mild symptoms.

The numerous digital and social media channels allow misinformation to spread quickly. That’s why it’s important for people to get their information through reputable sources including local health systems, Florida Department of Health, Center for Disease Control and trusted news sources. 

As BayCare continues to support the public health needs of our community, we have closed the following locations.

BayCare is repositioning resources in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak to help stem the spread of COVID-19. Find testing centers.  

If you suspect you have coronavirus and have not yet been screened for COVID-19 by a provider, visit BayCareAnywhere.org on your smart phone or computer 24/7 to have a virtual visit with a provider.

Pre-screening is necessary before accessing a COVID-19 testing site.

As the coronavirus infection rate continues to grow, BayCare Health System is closing patient visitation at its hospitals to safeguard the health of patients, team members, physicians and the community. The changes take effect Saturday, March 21. Only in certain, specific instances, will visitors be allowed into facilities.

Visitors may still be allowed, if approved by the hospital administrator on duty, for these circumstances:

• Inpatient
  • Labor and delivery, post-partum, pediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • End of life situations
  • Behavioral Health Unit
• Emergency Room
  • Waiting room only
• Outpatient procedures
  • Waiting room only when accompanying a patient receiving sedation