There are no reports of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Northwest Indiana and health authorities say there is low risk of getting the infection. However, the Centers for Disease Control offers tips to prevent the spread of respiratory infections like COVID-19:

• Avoid non-essential travel. (CDC warns against travel to China, Iran, South Korea and Italy, all experiencing severe COVID-19 outbreaks).
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• A facemask offers little protection unless properly used, but it can help to reduce the spread of infection to others if you show symptoms of any respiratory infection.