AUSTIN January 22, 2019 -Texas physicians should be on alert for a novel coronavirus as health officials monitor an outbreak in China that began in December. Several news outlets reported today the first confirmed case in the U.S. in Washington State.
The latest news comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health alert last week about the outbreak, in which several hundred infections and at least six deaths have been confirmed, news media are reporting today.
No cases have been reported in Texas so far, but health authorities urge physicians to be on the lookout for symptoms, particularly in patients who have recently traveled to Wuhan City, China.
Symptoms include fever and symptoms of lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough, shortness of breath).
The CDC alert includes more information about the outbreak, including recommendations for reporting, testing, and collecting specimens.
The Texas Medical Association website also has information on infectious diseases and how you can help protect patients. TMA will continue to monitor CDC advisories and will report any updates.
