THOMASVILLE — Archbold Memorial Hospital takes an all-hazards approach to guide the organization through infectious disease threats, whether it is coronavirus, flu or other outbreaks, officials said.

“We follow guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and The World Health Organization,” said Mike Washington, Archbold infection control coordinator. “According to the CDC, for the general American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk is considered low.”

According to CDC, the virus — COVID-19 — is thought to spread primarily by person-to person contact through respiratory droplets produced when the infected person coughs or sneezes, Washington said.

He suggested the following precautions:

• Wash hands frequently

• Practice sneeze and cough etiquette

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

• See doctor if you feel sick

Washington said coronavirus symptoms vary by individual, but the most common symptoms are fever, cough and fatigue. Shortness of breath, headache, sore throat, labored breathing and runny nose also have been reported. 

“The effect on the body is similar to that of the flu. Symptoms can range from mild to severe,” Washington said.

On Friday, Gov. Brian P. Kemp announced a coronavirus task force to assess Georgia’s preparations and procedures for preventing, identifying and — if needed — addressing cases of coronavirus. Kemp made the announcement after a phone conversation with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence about the Trump administration’s efforts to ease interagency cooperation and proactive measures to stem the virus’ impact.

There are no confirmed cases of the disease in Georgia.

DPH has a detailed pandemic flu plan developed with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, the Georgia Department of Education and other state agencies, and will be adapted for a coronavirus outbreak in the state.

DPH Emergency Preparedness and Response is providing CDC information and guidance about coronavirus to all health care and hospital facilities throughout Georgia and conducting weekly calls with the entire public health and hospital/health care community to update information and answer questions.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820