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What You Need to Know About COVID-19

Novel Coronavirus

  • Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause mild illnesses like a cold, to more serious illnesses like pneumonia.

  • Infections with this new virus have been reported in many countries, including the U.S. For an updated list of affected areas, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.

  • The virus is likely to be spread from person to person, but it is currently unclear how easily it spreads.

  • Commonly reported symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

  • Most people (80%) with COVID-19 will feel like they have a bad cold or the flu. Some people will require hospitalization. People who are at most risk for severe illness are elderly or have other health conditions.


A graphic on coronavirus. New Yorkers should take steps like washing hands often with soap, covering your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, not touching your face, not shaking hands, staying home and calling your doctor if you're sick with coughing, sneezing, fever, shortness of breath and sore throat and don't improve within 24 to 48 hours. Call 311 if you need medical medical care, we will provide it. A graphic on coronavirus. New Yorkers should take steps like avoid gatherings and events if you have lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer or weakened immune system, do not visit people with those conditions if you're sick, consider tele-commuting, stagger work hours, walk or bike to work if possible, wait for a less crowded train or bus if possible.


The NYC Department of Health has issued factsheets regarding COVID-19 "Coronavirus".

Novel Coronavirus Outbreak Factsheet (PDF)

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