One Brooklyn
January 29, 2020
Photo Credit: Erica Krodman/Brooklyn BP’s Office
Brooklyn, NY – Today, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams joined representatives from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), community leaders, and elected officials for a press conference in Sunset Park to highlight steps members of the public can take to protect themselves and their loved ones from the coronavirus, based on recommendations and guidance provided by the DOHMH, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Borough President Adams and other participants amplified best practices and public awareness about how to access the most up-to-date information on the topic.
“As coronavirus continues to spread, it is imperative that every Brooklynite be aware of how to protect themselves and their loved ones. That’s why we are proud to lead this public outreach campaign in Sunset Park. I want to assure all Brooklyn residents that there is no need for panic, and there have been no confirmed cases here in New York State as of yet. Nonetheless, we must maintain our vigilance against a legitimate public health threat. We thank the Department of Health and NYC Health + Hospitals for their partnership and their tireless efforts to keep New Yorkers informed and safe,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.
“There’s significant misinformation and rumors being circulated about the coronavirus. It is important New Yorkers be aware of simple steps they can take to keep themselves safe and where they can obtain reliable information,” said Congress Member Nydia M. Velazquez.
“The way to combat fear is with knowledge, and I’m thankful that Borough President Adams convened this meeting quickly to inform the public. We will continue to work across all relevant agencies and with local organizations in our district like the Chinese-American Planning Council, who were quick to host this important conversation,” said Council Member Carlos Menchaca, Chair of the New York City Council’s Committee on Immigration.
“We know from past experiences with tuberculosis in Sunset Park that we can avoid viruses by taking precautions recommended by health authorities and specialists. I strongly urge New Yorkers to follow the stay-safe guidelines against the Coronavirus carefully. With so many residents traveling across the globe frequently, preventive measures will go a long way to protect our families from illness,” said Assistant Speaker Assembly Member Felix W. Ortiz.
Some of the guidelines for New Yorkers to protect themselves and their families discussed at today’s informational event included:
· Frequently washing your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers;
· Using a tissue or the bend of your arm when sneezing or coughing;
· Avoiding being around people with cold or flu-like symptoms;
· Cooking animal-based foods thoroughly; and
· Avoiding unprotected contact with wild or farm animals.
Additionally, Borough President Adams and DOHMH laid out precautions and considerations for New Yorkers to take when traveling, including:
· Notifying your doctor and medical professionals of any recent or expectant travel to China or other affected areas;
· If you’re currently experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, consult your doctor and medical professionals before traveling; and
· Speak with your doctor and medical professionals about any appropriate vaccines.
And additionally, Borough President advised health care providers both to be on the look-out for people who recently traveled from China with fever and respiratory symptoms and to follow recommended infection control procedures.
Those who may have an infection are encouraged follow CDC guidance on how to reduce the risk of spreading their illness to others.
People who have had close contact with someone infected with coronavirus who develop symptoms are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider and tell them about their symptoms and exposure to a coronavirus patient.
To date, more than 6,000 people have been diagnosed with the virus globally, with 132 deaths in 16 confirmed countries. For the most up-to-date information, consult the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization.
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