2019 Novel Coronavirus

Learn about Covid-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) -- symptoms, prevention, testing, treatment, and other health concerns -- here. We will continue to update this page as information becomes available. The following are sources for up-to-date, factual, trustworthy information about the virus from experts:

What to do if you are positive for Covid-19 (Note: at this time these isolation guidelines may not apply for covid positive individuals in certain settings, such as healthcare and pre-k/childcare centers)

(Information from the NJ Department of Health)


Covid-19 Vaccinations

Covid-19 vaccines are available. If you received a first dose the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, be sure to return for your second dose! Find more information here.

Learn about booster shot eligibility here

Covid-19 Case Data

Guidance for Close Contacts


Close Contact Guidelines (General Public)

*At this time these guidelines may not apply to certain settings (check with your child's school and/or your employer in regards to their guidance).

COVID ALERT NJ Mobile App (PDF)

COVID Alert NJ is New Jersey’s free and secure mobile app that anonymously alerts users if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19. The app also provides users with up-to-date information on New Jersey reopening news, key Covid-19 metrics, and a user-friendly symptom tracking tool. 

Prevention

In addition to getting a Covid-19 vaccine, other measures you can take to keep you and others safe include...

  • Social distancing: Maintain a space of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. Do not congregate in groups, at events, etc.
  • Frequent hand washing: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to thoroughly clean your hands. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Respiratory hygiene: Cover your mouth/nose when you cough/sneeze with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Immediately discard the tissue.

The CDC’s latest recommendations encourage use of a mask when going out in public. This helps protect others with whom you might come into contact. Find out how to wear a mask effectively and more information here..

  • Please keep in mind that masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
  • For more information about masks from the CDC click here.

Find more WHO information about protective measures. Read the CDC’s tips on How to Protect Yourself.

Fact Sheets: Prevention

  1. COVID-19 Info_EPA Recommended Disinfectants (PDF)
  1. Stop the Spread of Germs_COVID-19_CDC (PDF)

Symptoms

Common symptoms of Covid-19 include: fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Read more from the CDC about symptoms and when to seek medical attention here.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

If you are sick, the CDC and NJ Department of Health recommend that you stay home and self-isolate, wear a mask around others, call ahead to seek medical attention, monitor your symptoms, and continue to thoroughly and frequently wash your hands and cover your coughs and sneezes. 

Treatment

Many covid cases recover well on their own without any treatment, although some people may benefit from treatment for covid-19 if they are more at risk for severe illness from covid-19.  Any treatment for covid-19 should be discussed with your health care provider.  Click here to find out more information about available treatment options.

Treatment for Long Covid-19

After having recovered from covid-19, some people may experience long term symptoms/conditions from having had covid-19.  Click the link here to learn more about long covid-19 and resources for treatment developed by Essex Regional Health Commission.  

Questions? Call or Text

We encourage residents to call the NJ COVID-19 Hotline at 1-800-962-1253 or text using one of the methods below if they have general questions about novel coronavirus. The hotline is open 24/7 and has multi-language capacity. Callers who need medical advice should contact their health care provider.

The NJ Poison Control Center and 211 have partnered with the State to provide information to the Public on Covid-19:

Blue speech bubble with Ŗ-1-1" in white

  • Call: 2-1-1
  • Call (24/7): 1-800-962-1253
  • Text: NJCOVID to 898-211
  • Text: your zip code to 898-211 for live text assistance

You might also find answers to your questions here: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (CDC)

Mental Health and Support Resources

  • Crisis Text Line: Text "NJ" to 741741
  • Family Helpline: 1-800-843-5437
  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-572-7233
  • Mental Health Hotline: 866-202-4357
  • More: Mental Health During Covid-19
"Be SMART & inform yourself about #coronavirus" - from who.int