As the media coverage of Novel Coronavirus (now called COVID-19) continues to evolve, Atlantic Health System wants to assure its patients and communities that they are working closely with local, state and federal public health agencies, as well as their own health care professionals, to be prepared.

Additionally, the public can take preventative actions to help limit the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and flu.

A few common measures the CDC advises for the general public include:

•       Washing hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub for at least 20 seconds

•       Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth

•       Avoid close contact (6 feet) with people who appear to have a respiratory infection

It is also important that if you are having symptoms, you call ahead of your visit to the doctor to communicate travel history and symptoms before arriving, enabling the provider to determine the best setting for you to receive care.

Finally, it is critical that communities know where to obtain the most accurate and current information from credible sources. The New Jersey Department of Health has a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-222-1222, where trained healthcare professionals are standing by to answer questions about COVID-19. The CDC and NIH are also excellent sources for the latest information.

As always, Atlantic Health System’s top priority is the safety of its patients, communities and health care professionals. Expert clinicians regularly care for patients with severe respiratory illnesses and other infectious diseases. They are well trained and follow specific procedures using all the tools and techniques in place to protect themselves, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). AHS is drawing on this experience as it continues to prepare and address key issues, including the early recognition and isolation of any patient identified as being high risk for COVID-19.

AHS will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.