The Snohomish Health District has announced how the public can help contain the spread of the coronavirus.

•Do not go to the emergency room unless essential.

If you have symptoms like cough, fever or other respiratory problems, call your regular doctor, and:

•Stay home when sick.

•Practice excellent personal hygiene, including washing hands, coughing into a tissue or elbow, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

•Information changes frequently so go to www.snohd.org/ncov2019

The district reports that a student at Jackson High School is isolated at home. A woman in her 40s had been hospitalized. And a man in his 40s in Kirkland has died. The Snohomish County person thought to be the first case in January has fully recovered.

Meanwhile, Marysville firefighter/EMTs and paramedics, when dispatched to a patient with respiratory/flu symptoms, will be wearing gloves, a mask and goggles, at a minimum. If transporting a patient with respiratory symptoms, crew members will also wear protective gowns. These measures are being taken to help prevent the potential spread of the virus.

Also, many stores are selling out and trying to get more cleaning supplies such as hand sanitizers, disinfectants and antibacterial sprays.

The Centers for Disease Control says that most people have little risk of exposure, but it’s best to practice everyday habits such as vigorous hand washing with warm water and soap to slow the spread of the virus.

Other preventative measures recommended by the CDC include to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

The CDC also states that facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease.