Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
According to the World Health Organization, most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age.
The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. You can protect yourself and others from infection by staying at least 6 feet apart from others, wearing a properly fitted mask, and washing your hands frequently. You may also consider getting vaccinated.
The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small particles when they cough, sneeze, or breathe. It is important to practice safe respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into your elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell.
Additional Links:
World Health Organization
CDC
CDC COVID-19 Updates
DODEA COVID-19 Information
TRICARE COVID-19 Information
DOD COVID-19 Response
U.S. Marine Corps COVID-19 Resources
Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center Resources
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a severe, often fatal illness that affects humans and other primates such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and monkeys. EVD is transmitted by wild animal-to-human and human-to-human infection. While the origin is unknown, fruit bats are believed to be the most likely host. Historically sporadic, the most recent outbreak in 2014 was the largest and most complex Ebola outbreak since discovery of the virus in 1976. On August 8, 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General declared this outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The direct threat to Marine Corps personnel and their families is stated to be low, but awareness is key to prevention. This information is provided to share knowledge about EVD based on understanding of the virus as of October 2014. Remain informed by monitoring information posted on the Navy & Marine Corps Public Health Center website. To date, there is no proven treatment effective in counteracting EVD, but the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a range of blood, immunological, and drug therapies are under development and testing. Symptoms of EVD can be treated. Examples of such treatments include providing intravenous fluids, helping with breathing, and controlling blood pressure.
Additional Links:
CDC: About Ebola
Downloadable PDF
Non-Polio Enteroviruses are very common viral infections that affect 10 to 15 million people in the U.S. every year, according to the CDC. Types of non-polio enteroviruses include Coxsackievirus A, Coxsackievirus B, Echoviruses, and Enterovirus D68. Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) was first reported in 1962 in California, and has been regularly reported to the CDC since 1987. In 2014, there was an increase in reported EV-D68 cases across the U.S., especially in people with asthma or children with reactive airway disease. Anyone can become infected with non-polio enteroviruses, but infants, children, and teenagers are more susceptible. Most people who contract an enterovirus will not become ill or will experience a mild illness, but some—especially infants and those with weakened immune symptoms, can become very sick and have infection of the brain or heart, or even become paralyzed. In the United States, enteroviruses are more prevalent in the summer and fall, but can be contracted at any time of year. Enteroviruses are spread by close contact with an infected person. They are most commonly transmitted through small traces of fecal matter, but can also be transmitted by respiratory means. Because the viruses can live on surfaces for several days, transmission by touching an object or surface that has the virus on it and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes is also a concern.
Additional Links:
CDC: About Enterovirus
CDC: About Enterovirus D68
Downloadable PDF
Mumps is an acute viral illness caused by the mumps virus. While there are fewer than 300 cases in the United States each year, some cases can be extremely dangerous. Complications can cause inflammation of the brain and surrounding tissue, spinal cord, testicles, ovaries, and/or breasts, as well as spontaneous abortions and permanent deafness.
Additional Links
CDC: Mumps Information
CDC: MMR Vaccination Information
Downloadable PDF
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a viral disease that has emerged in temperate regions of North America and presents a threat to both public and animal health.
WNV has become established as a seasonal disease that flares up in the summer months and continues into the fall.
Additional Links
CDC: West Nile Virus
CDC: West Nile Factsheet
Downloadable PDF
Zika Virus is a mosquito-borne virus that is an emerging threat to Marines and families both CONUS and OCONUS. In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization issued an alert regarding confirmed cases of Zika in Brazil. The World Health Organization declared Zika a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in February 2016.
Additional Links
Navy & Marine Corps Public Health Center
CDC: Zika Virus
Pan American Health Organization