The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says a possible case of coronavirus is being investigated in the state.

KDHE Secretary Lee Norman said the patient recently visited Wuhan City, China, where the outbreak of the coronavirus has been reported.  The patient reported having a fever, respiratory symptoms, and a cough.  Dr. Norman said the patient is doing well and has been put into isolation.   The patient lives in Douglas County.

Testing has been done and sent to the Centers for Disease Control, and Dr. Norman said the results may not be known until Thursday at the earliest.   He said state health officials have met with the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department and the hospital where the patient is being cared for.  He said there is a good plan to care for the patient and trace down any contacts.

The 2019 novel coronavirus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.   Symptoms are believed to appear within two to 14 days after exposure, and they include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing.

Anyone who has traveled to Wuhan, China and developed fever with respiratory symptoms within 14 days of travel or have had contact with someone who is suspected to have 2019 Novel Coronavirus, should stay home and call their healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 1-877-427-7317 if you believe you may have been affected.

People are also urged to get a flu shot and follow basic prevention guidelines:

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and staying home when sick.

The best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses are to:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.