Northern Arizona SARS-CoV-2 novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response
March 13, 2020
Northern Arizona Healthcare is committed to your health and well-being. We know that the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is concerning to many of you, and that the fast state in which we learn about it can contribute to a sense of fear. With processes and protocols in place across our system to safely care for patients, we continue to follow recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Coconino and Yavapai county health departments, as well as the Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS). We additionally follow CDC guidelines for reporting, as well as formalized procedures for patients and our colleagues, exercising best practices intended to lower public risk of exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 novel Coronavirus, which causes the COVID-19 illness. We believe that in working together, and in communicating together, we are at our best.
In closely monitoring (COVID-19) we are also aware of the Arizona state of emergency announcement. Please note that this is specific to emergency rules for skilled nursing, intermediate care, and assisted living facilities. Here in our region, the close communication and collaboration we have with AZDHS, and the Coconino and Yavapai county health departments allow us to connect with their timely and most up to date reporting. These organizations are key sources of information within the counties and at the state level. We also comply with local, state and federal requirements to report cases under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and recommendations. Our active monitoring COVID-19 in the communities we serve will continue without pause.
Northern Arizona Healthcare has not confirmed any cases of COVID-19 and does not have any patients who have tested positive in any of our facilities. We partner with CDC approved labs that test for COVID-19; Northern Arizona Healthcare does not independently test for COVID-19, but we do collect and send samples to state or other approved labs for testing. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the novel Coronavirus situation, and noting that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as county agencies receive the most up to date intelligence, we recommend all residents of northern Arizona familiarize themselves with the CDC webpage on the novel Coronavirus.
We will continue to keep our messaging up to date with what we learn and keep all community members informed. Here is some key information:
What is the status of the coronavirus situation in Yavapai and Coconino counties?
Northern Arizona Healthcare references and is working with state and county public health authorities to monitor and report on COVID-19 as the situation develops. Please refer to the Arizona Department of Health Services website for the latest information regarding COVID-19.
What advice do you have for the public in terms of staying safe and avoiding the disease?
As an organization, Northern Arizona Healthcare follows CDC recommendations for reducing the risk of spreading infectious disease such as hygiene best practices. We recommend the below as well, for all patients, families and community members:
> Wash your hands often – for at least 20 seconds
> Avoid touching your face, nose, eyes, etc.
> Clean and disinfect your home to remove germs
> Avoid close contact with people who are sick
> Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated areas
Note: These recommendations are guidelines and not inclusive of all possible measures of prevention.
What kinds of specialized facilities may be available if needed for quarantine?
Northern Arizona Healthcare defers to state and county public health departments regarding quarantine procedures for persons infected with COVID-19.
What is the incubation period?
According to the CDC, persons exposed to COVID-19 may begin to exhibit symptoms 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
How is the virus known to be spread?
According to the CDC, COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning how it spreads, the severity of illness it causes and to what extent it may spread. Northern Arizona Healthcare will continue to refer to the CDC resources regarding the transmission of COVID-19.
How is the public being kept informed about the development of the situation?
The CDC, as well as state and local county health departments, are publishing regular updates on the development of COVID-19. Northern Arizona Healthcare refers to these expert sources for the latest information.
Please visit AZDHS and the CDC at to stay up-to-date and learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Coconino County Health and Human Services has established the Coconino County COVID-19 Information Line. The number is 928-679-7300. Additional information is also available at Coconino.az.gov.
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It’s a New Era at Northern Arizona Healthcare. In alignment with a rapidly changing industry, we are driven by experience, quality and the cost of care. In this New Era, NAH is committed to creating an amazing experience for our partners – the colleagues, physicians, providers, patients and other organizations who collaborate to support the health and wellness of our families, friends and neighbors.
Northern Arizona Healthcare is improving health, healing people by providing always better care to every person, every time across the healthcare continuum through services at Flagstaff Medical Center, Verde Valley Medical Center, Verde Valley Medical Center – Sedona Campus, Northern Arizona Healthcare – Camp Verde Campus, Northern Arizona Healthcare – Village of Oak Creek, Northern Arizona Healthcare Medical Group – Flagstaff, Verde Valley Medical Clinic, the Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare, Northern Arizona Healthcare Orthopedic Surgery Center, EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine, Weight Management Clinic, the Heart & Vascular Center of Northern Arizona, Guardian Air and Guardian Medical Transport. We also provide comprehensive imaging, laboratory and pharmacy services throughout the region. Many of the services we provide, including The Taylor House and Valley View Care, receive major funding through the Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation.
For more information on Northern Arizona Healthcare programs and services, visit NAHealth.com. “Like” us on Facebook by searching Northern Arizona Healthcare Flagstaff and Northern Arizona Healthcare Verde Valley. Follow us on Instagram by searching Northern Arizona Healthcare.
Contact: Karlee Weiler
Marketing Specialist
Northern Arizona Healthcare
Phone: 928-639-6071
Karlee.Weiler@NAHealth.com