Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

There is an ongoing investigation to determine more about this outbreak. This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will release new information as it becomes available.

STARLING’S PREPARATIONS

At Starling, we’re taking precautions and making the necessary decisions in regards to Coronavirus.

We have very detailed infection control policies for all of our Starling communities, and we’re reviewing those policies with our ream members.

We’re encouraging anyone who spends time in our lives in one of our communities to increase their handwashing.

We’re also asking anyone with any signs or symptoms of the flu to avoid visiting any of our Starling communities.

We’re constantly monitoring the most current advisories from the CDC, the appropriate county health departments and the Agency for Health Care Administration. We’re very mindful of how this virus may affect our residents and team members.

At some point in the very near future, it may be necessary to restrict access to any of our properties so that we can maintain the health and wellness of our residents and team members.

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE CDC

The CDC is asking everyone to do their part in response to this emerging public health threat.

It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season, and the CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine in addition to taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs.

Older people and those with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they’re at higher risk of developing Coronavirus.

Here’s a checklist of things everyone should be doing on a daily basis:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with your fingers
• Wash your hands thoroughly before eating
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• Cover your mouth and nose whenever you cough or sneeze, and throw away tissues immediately
• If you’re feeling sick, avoid contact with others and stay home
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

FAQ

What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?

Patients with COVID-19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Can people in the U.S. get COVID-19?

Yes. COVID-19 is spreading from person to person in parts of the United States. Risk of infection with COVID-19 is higher for people who are close contacts of someone known to have COVID-19.

Have there been cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.?

Yes. The first case of COVID-19 in the United States was reported on January 21. The current count of cases of COVID-19 in the United States is available on CDC’s webpage by CLICKING HERE.

How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.

Is there a vaccine?

There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to take everyday preventive actions, like avoiding close contact with people who are sick and washing your hands often.

Is there a treatment?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms.

If you’d like more information about COVID-19, CLICK HERE to visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official website.