We understand that the news about COVID-19 (2019 novel coronavirus) may be creating concern and worry for some people.

We wanted to let you know that we are continuing to monitor the outbreak closely and are in close and regular contact with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and CDC. Public Health has been planning for and practicing responses for situations like this for over ten years. We have plans, partnerships, and resources in place to support the community and are working in close coordination with our regional public health partners, hospitals, school districts, the University of Colorado and the first responder and health care communities.

COVID-19 Situation summary

There are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Colorado. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will tell the public when there is the first case in Colorado – details about ill persons (e.g., age, sex, home county, etc.) will not be shared.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that they have found no significant change in the genetic makeup of the virus and that for people with mild disease, the recovery time is about two weeks, while people with a more severe form of the illness recover within three to six weeks.

Now is the time to think about preparing

We have an opportunity now to make some practical preparations. While the WHO states that we are not witnessing an uncontained global spread of this virus, it is important for each of us, and our communities to prepare.

In the event it does become widespread, we will follow our plans developed with the guidance of CDPHE and CDC. Actions may include things like:

• Canceling large events designed to keep us from infecting each other
• Closing schools and providing students opportunities to learn online instead
• Requesting that employees support teleworking, flexible shifts, cross-train employees to cover if employees are out sick, and cancel large meetings or conferences 

We as individuals and families can prepare and practice now

Getting ready for widespread disease is largely about preparing for possible shortages. Here are some things you can do:

• Try to get an extra months’ worth of prescription medications, if possible, in case there are supply chain disruptions. 
• Slowly start to stock up on enough non-perishable food to last your household through two weeks of staying at home if there is a wave of transmission in the community.  
• Think about how you will continue to work if your child’s school is closed.
• Understand that large gatherings you plan to attend may be cancelled.
• Think through how you will take care of sick family members while trying not to get infected. 
• Make plans for childcare if you become sick, or when your child is sick.
• Start practicing not touching your face now. This can greatly reduce the frequency of potential spread. (You can even try a buddy system, where you and a friend remind each other when someone scratches their eyelid or rubs their nose.) 
• Replace handshakes with elbow-bumps.
• Start building healthy habits like pushing elevator buttons with a knuckle instead of a fingertip. 
• Avoid sharing e-cigarettes, drinks, etc.
• Increase regular cleaning of commonly touched surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, faucet handles, toilet handles, etc.).

And of course, continue to practice everyday wellness steps

• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing.
• Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Get an annual flu vaccine if you have not had one.

Employers can start planning and practicing too

Use the CDC guidance to put continuity strategies in place like:

• Cross-training so that core functions won’t be derailed if key employees are out sick.
• Telework or flexible shift options.
• Alternatives to large meetings or conferences.

Keep Up-to-Date

Learn more about the COVID-19 at:

• Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
• Centers for Disease Control
• World Health Organization
• Call CO-Help at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911 or email COHELP@RMPDC.org, for answers in English and Spanish

This is a time for all communities, families, and individuals to focus on preparing. We must work together to protect those in our community who are most at risk of severe disease, particularly the elderly and people with underlying health conditions.

Thank you for helping to keep yourself and our community healthy and well!