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Current Topics
- Novel Coronavirus
- E-cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury (EVALI)
- Measles
- Influenza (Flu)
- Zombie Preparedness
CDC is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (termed “COVID-19”) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and which continues to expand.
There are ongoing investigations to learn more. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.
While CDC considers this is a very serious public health threat, based on current information, the immediate health risk from 2019-nCoV to the general American public is considered low at this time.
For current information, visit the CDC website on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus.
For information and updates about 2019-nCoV in Maryland — including up-to-date testing and laboratory-confirmed case numbers — click here: Maryland Department of Health 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Outbreak.
E-cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury (EVALI)
The Maryland Department of Health is investigating cases of individuals who have developed severe lung illness with no clear infectious cause after using e-cigarettes, or “vaping.” Similar cases have been reported in other states across the United States and are described on the CDC Webpage. See Maryland information and FAQs here.
Patients report using e-cigarettes or vaping in the weeks or months prior to the onset of symptoms. Respiratory symptoms reported include: shortness of breath, chest pain, pain on breathing, wheezing, coughing, and coughing up blood. Other symptoms reported by many patients include: fever, chills, nausea, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
The best way to keep yourself safe is to not use e-cigarettes or vapes.
If you want to stop using e-cigarettes, or any tobacco product, you can call the Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW: Trained professionals are there 24/7 to help you.
Measles
Frederick County Health Department's Immunization Clinic
Measles Frequently Asked Questions
Maryland Department of Health Measles page
Influenza (Flu)
For the latest information on the current Influenza season & availability of the flu vaccine, visit the following websites:
| Other Types of Influenza | |
|---|---|
| Swine/Varient Flu | |
| Avian Influenza | |
| Pandemic Flu | |
Zombie Preparedness
Are you prepared for a Zombie Pandemic? The CDC has started a campaign to help you prepare for zombies, or for any other public health emergency that might happen. The great thing about being prepared is that you need the same things if you're preparing for zombies, a hurricane, or winter weather! Get a kit, make a plan, be prepared!
For more information about preparing for zombies (or whatever might happen!), check out the CDC's graphic novel, "Preparedness 101: Zombie Pandemic."