Atypical Pneumonia due to novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) – Wuhan, Hubei Province, China

A total of 43 lab-confirmed cases of atypical pneumonia due to a novel coronavirus called 2019-nCoV have been reported that originate from Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. 2019-nCoV is a new coronavirus belonging to the same coronavirus family as SARS-CoV.

Thus far, there is no clear evidence of human-to-human transmission among close contacts or health care workers. However, human-to-human transmission cannot be ruled out. The risk to Canadians at this time is considered low.

To facilitate early detection and containment, we ask that you remain alert for patients presenting with:

• Fever and acute respiratory illness, with or without pneumonia AND
• Recent travel to Wuhan, China within 14 days prior to symptom onset, OR Another potential relevant exposure (e.g., close contact with someone who was ill and had recently travelled to Wuhan)

If a patient meets the criteria above:

1. Ensure the suspect patient is promptly isolated under droplet and contact precautions (and under airborne precautions should aerosol generating medical procedures be involved)
2. Notify the Medical Health Officer (contact information below).
3. Ensure appropriate testing is completed through discussion with the Medical Health Officer or the BCCDC Medical Microbiologist On-Call (604-661-7033). Testing for 2019-nCoV requires notification and consultation of the Medical Health Officer and BCCDC Medical Microbiologist. Where feasible, upper and lower respiratory tract, as well as stool, urine, and serum specimens will be requested.

We are continually monitoring the situation in China and domestically. As additional information becomes available, we will update you accordingly.

Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter.

The Fraser Health Medical Health Officers are available for medical consultations at 604-587-3828 or 1-877-342-6467 (M-F, 0830-1630 hrs) or after hours at 604-527-4806.