For cohorting of symptomatic and asymptomatic nCoV patients, Maricopa County Public Health recommends:

• If a patient is symptomatic and fits criteria, patient should be isolated
• If a patient is asymptomatic and fits the criteria, patients can be cohorted with other asymptomatic persons awaiting evaluation
• If patient is symptomatic and it is unknown if they fit criteria, patient should be isolated
• If patient is symptomatic and does NOT fit criteria, patient should be treated per normal protocols

We also wanted to update you on the status of Novel Coronavirus (nCoV) in Maricopa County so you can share accurate information about the current situation with your employees and the public.  There has only been one confirmed case of Novel Coronavirus in Maricopa County and that person is isolated to prevent spread to others.  Individuals at risk have been contacted and are being monitored by public health. The risk to the public is extremely low.  We are asking our partners to communicate accurate information to the public and not cause undue concern.

In response to public concerns we have developed a sign for healthcare clinics in Maricopa County to post outside their door accompanied by surgical masks.  The sign directs anyone with respiratory symptoms to put on a mask before they enter the premises and let the receptionist know if they traveled to Wuhan, China in the prior 14 days.   The primary purpose of the masks are to protect staff and other patients from flu and other respiratory viruses.

Please refer to the following MCDPH nCoV criteria to learn more. In addition, please make sure your staff has seen this press release and is aware of the website, Maricopa.gov/coronavirus should they receive questions. Thank you.

Maricopa County Department of Public Health