Coronavirus update for Waltham Residents from the Waltham Health Department

We understand many of you may have questions regarding the respiratory illness caused by the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCOV) that was initially detected in Wuhan, China and has continued to spread.

The Waltham Health Department is monitoring the latest information from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH). At this time, there are not any special measures recommended for local public health departments or schools. This situation continues to evolve rapidly.  The Waltham Health Department participates regularly in MDPH conference calls to monitor emerging information.

• The most up to date nationwide information can be found at the CDC.
• Local information can be found at the MDPH.
• See here for an update from the Waltham Public Schools
• and here for an update on Coronavirus & the Flu from from Monica Bharel, Commissioner of the Department of Public Health

Respiratory Illness Prevention

We would like to take this time to remind people that it is the cold and flu season and there are precautions we can all take to stay as healthy as possible. The following prevention measures are important in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses such as influenza and Coronavirus.

• Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is unavailable use and alcohol based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash. You can also cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible.
• Stay home when you are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home work or school.  

This is a rapidly evolving situation and we will keep the public updated as we get the updates.