The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is preparing for the new coronavirus to take a foothold in the United States. The coronavirus has killed at least 1,115 and sickened more than 45,000 worldwide, with a large jump in deaths and infections in the past day.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday it is preparing for the new coronavirus. So far, health officials have confirmed 13 U.S. cases of the virus, now named COVID-19, short for Corona Virus Disease, according to CNBC News.

“At some point, we are likely to see community spread in the U.S. or in other countries,” Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, told reporters on a conference call. “This will trigger a change in our response strategy.”

Messonnier said the CDC is regularly talking with manufacturers of medical supplies, such as masks and gloves, to ensure enough are available in case of an outbreak here. “At this time, some partners [in other countries] are reporting higher than usual demand for N95 respirators and facemasks,” she said. –CNBC News

Messonnier added that the CDC is regularly talking with manufacturers of medical supplies, such as masks and gloves, to ensure enough are going to be available in case of an outbreak here. “At this time, some partners [in other countries] are reporting higher than usual demand for N95 respirators and facemasks,” she said.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME (QUARANTINE) FOR A PANDEMIC

Messonnier says that as of right now unless you know you have the coronavirus, you don’t need to wear a facemask. “When you are alone in your home, you do not need to wear a mask,” she said. “Our goal is to be as least restrictive as possible while ensuring the safety and health of all Americans,” she added. “We are continually reassessing our recommendations around quarantine and self-monitoring.”

Another concern is that the virus will mutate, becoming more deadly, and spread even faster.