Valleywise Health has infection prevention protocols in place to protect patients, employees and visitors from respiratory viruses like influenza and the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-2019). There has been no reported community transmission of COVID-2019 in Arizona, and the vast majority of illnesses around the world are mild, with fever and cough. A much smaller percentage of cases are severe and involve pneumonia, particularly in elderly people and individuals with underlying medical conditions.
To protect you and your loved ones, always wash your hands thoroughly and cover your cough. Valleywise Health is working closely with the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health to remain up to date with the most current health recommendations.
If you traveled to China or other areas currently affected by COVID-19 and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should:
- Avoid contact with others.
- Do not travel while sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- 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 that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Seek medical care right away. Before going to your doctor’s office, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
- If you do not have a healthcare provider, you may need to be seen at your local hospital emergency room/urgent care. Please call the emergency room/urgent care to get instructions before going in.
- When visiting an emergency room/urgent care, please wear a mask.
The most current information about the 2019 novel coronavirus is also available directly through the CDC, ADHS and MCDPH:
Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 website
Arizona Department of Health Services: www.azdhs.gov
Maricopa County Department of Public Health: www.maricopa.gov under the Public Health section.