Top CDC Official Warns US Should Prepare For Coronavirus ‘To Take A Foothold’

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday it is preparing for the new coronavirus, which has killed at least 1,115 and sickened more than 45,000 worldwide, to “take a foothold in the U.S.” “At some point, we are likely to see community spread in the U.S. or in other countries,” Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, told reporters on a conference call.

“This will trigger a change in our response strategy.” Health officials had confirmed 13 U.S. cases of the virus,  now named COVID-19, short for Corona Virus Disease. Messonnier said the CDC is regularly talking with manufacturers of medical supplies, such as masks and gloves, to ensure enough are available in case of an outbreak here.

“At this time, some partners [in other countries] are reporting higher than usual demand for N95 respirators and facemasks,” she said.  The CDC does not currently recommend the use of facemasks by the general public. Messonnier said people who are sick or under investigation should wear facemasks when around other people or with health-care providers. -Full Report

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