Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses like the common cold and more severe illnesses such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
Coronaviruses circulate in animals and sometimes infect humans. It is believed that COVID-19 originated from animals. The mode of transmission remains unclear. Person-to person transmission is also taking place.
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Respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes
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Close contact, such as caring for an infected person
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Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.
The incubation period for COVID-19 appears to be 2-14 days.
It may be possible for infected persons to spread COVID-19 before they have symptoms.
For this reason, the CDC and Public Health recommends social distancing for persons returning from travel in affected areas, among other precautions.
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Get the vaccine.
- Wear a face mask.
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Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
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Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
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Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick or showing symptoms of respiratory illness, including coughing or sneezing.
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If you feel sick, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze with a bent elbow or with a tissue that is immediately thrown away.
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Stay home if you feel unwell.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
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If you feel unwell or become sick with similar symptoms to COVID-19, seek medical treatment immediately. Call in advance of visiting your health care provider, and follow their instructions.
Social distancing is the practice of avoiding congregated settings and limiting public activities.
Insofar as possible, people should remain at home or in a comparable setting. Social distancing is recommended for the duration of the 10-day incubation period.
Social distancing is a self-regulated recommended practice for those with higher risks for developing COVID-19.
Quarantine is mandated if you show symptoms and is the process of keeping those with the confirmed disease away from the healthy population.
The SMC Emergency Operations Team and health professionals are closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19 and will continue to update the SMC community as the situation evolves.
The college is in close communication with local and state authorities and following guidelines from CDC and the LA County Department of Public Health.
It is recommended you stay informed on the status of COVID-19 with upcoming travel plans.
If your destination has confirmed outbreaks of COVID-19, follow all travel advisories issued by the CDC, including postponing or canceling travel.
The CDC recommends that people wear a face covering to protect themselves and others from respiratory illness, including COVID-19.
For more info, see SMC's Masking Guidelines.