As of March 4, 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued Level 3 Travel Warnings for all of China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran, and a Level 2 Travel Warning for Japan. However, the situation is rapidly evolving.  Be sure to refer to the CDC’s website for up-to-date information about travel warnings(link is external), as well as information about the coronavirus’ current impact in the United States(link is external). Daily updates about the coronavirus are also available from the World Health Organization(link is external). 

 

It is very important that you make sure you are getting information from credible sources like the CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html) and Wisconsin State Department of Health Services (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/covid-19.htm) instead of social media, and make smart choices at home and at work.

 

What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illnessthat can spread from person to person. The virus that causesCOVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified duringan investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

 

What is the risk of exposure to coronavirus?

The CDC reports that most people in the United States do not have an immediate risk of exposure to the virus. However, the situation is rapidly evolving, and the CDC will update its risk assessment as needed. Visit the CDC’s website(link is external) for latest updates.

 

What preventative measures may be taken to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading coronavirus?

The same preventative measures recommended to prevent influenza are also effective in reducing the risk of contracting or spreading coronavirus.  These measures include:

  • Staying home if you have a fever, cough, shortness of breath or any other cold or flu-like symptom.
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick.
  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve. 

 

What unique issues does coronavirus present to the real estate industry?

We are asking that you wash hands or use hand sanitizer before and after visits to open houses and viewing properties.  All agents have prompted sellers to sanitize high traffic areas, door knobs and levers.  Keep a “level head”  We have not seen an impact on the real estate industry yet and don’t for-see one in the future.

 

Credit to:

CDC

Realtor.com

GMAR (Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors)