Wico. health officials in “preparedness mode” for coronavirus

WICOMICO CO., Md. – The Wicomico County Health Department says there’s no need to panic about the coronavirus here on the Shore after three cases were confirmed in Montgomery County.

Department officials say they have been in preparedness mode for almost two months now. They’ve been talking with federal officials including the CDC as well as holding educational sessions with local leaders, business owners and schools about the virus. They say people are getting worried because they aren’t sure how it could impact them. So the best thing you can do for now is be one step ahead of it.

“We don’t want people to become overly excited and think it’s going to be here tomorrow. Just be prepared in the event that it does occur,” says Lori Brewster, a health officer with the Wicomico County Health Department.

Officials recommend you frequently wash your hands, stay home if you think you’re getting sick and practice social distancing which means keeping six feet between people. You can also create a 14-day preparedness kit with pain and fever reducers, cough suppressants as well as non-perishable food items. If you have symptoms like fever, shortness of breath or a cough make sure to call your doctor.