It's true...the Coronavirus is here in the U.S. and spreading around the globe. Is this a time to panic? The Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC) says, no. Is it a time to pay attention to health advisories, ask your physician questions and use common sense? Yes. You don't have to put your life on hold and lock yourself up in the house, but you do need to avoid a few situations that can put you and your family at risk.

The #1 way to protect yourself and your family is to practice standard public health measures and good hygiene like following:

  • Wash your hands as often as you can with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
  • If soap isn't available or you can't wash your hands, use hand sanitizer (with 60% alcohol) or antibacterial hand wipes.
  • At home/office clean high-touch areas like your phone, countertops and door knobs.
  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • Cover your cough, but not with your hands, rather cough in the bend of your arm. Sneeze in a tissue and throw it away afterwards.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Who is at risk? According to the CDC, persons 60 and older should limit all public outings to "necessity only" such as groceries, doctor appointments, and over the counter medicine or prescription refills. Avoid crowds, cruises, and none-essential air travel. Also, people with chronic diseases such as, diabetes, should stay home as often as they can to limit the danger of being exposed.

What is the Coronavirus and COVID-19?

What are the symptoms?

What else do I need to know? Check out the video below for all the details and more.

Plan on traveling? The CDC strongly advises travelers avoid all nonessential travel to the following "Level 3" destinations: China and Iran. Entry of foreign nationals from these destinations has been suspended.

Does travel insurance cover cancellations do to the Coronavirus? No. The truth is, most policies do not cover you should you decide to cancel your trip because of the virus outbreak. However, a very pricey premium called the "Cancel For Any Reason Plan" will cover you. Here are a few more things you need to know before you buy.

Getty Images

Monday March 9, 2020, the Louisiana Department of Health reported the state's first presumptive positive case of COVID-19/Coronavirus. Governor John Bel Edwards announced the person is a Jefferson Parish resident and they are hospitalized in Orleans Parish. Keep up with states across the nation reporting cases of the Coronavirus in the US: Map, case counts and news

For even more Coronavirus travel advisories, below is a list of helpful links from various government agencies, cruise lines, and airlines. In addition , the World Health Organization offers great tips and advice to keep you safe and healthy.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app