As your partner in the community and a world-class academic medical center, UPMC is ready to care for patients and staff who may be affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Our preparedness efforts for this health challenge are extensive, and we are ready to respond to the needs of our patients, employees, and community, both near and far. 
 
We are working around the clock to ensure that testing and treatment processes are in place to care for our patients and that our facilities and staff are well-equipped to properly care for those who may be affected. Our doctors, nurses, clinical staff and environmental services, and other support areas are experts in infection prevention to ensure the safety of our patients. 
 
We know you have many questions and encourage you to visit UPMC.com/COVID19 for the latest updates from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding the spread of the virus and how you and your loved ones can stay healthy and safe.  
 
We are always here for you, and we thank you for choosing and trusting UPMC.

 
Steven D. Shapiro, MD 
Executive Vice President, UPMC
Chief Medical and Scientific Officer
President, Health Services Division

Leslie C. Davis
Senior Vice President, UPMC
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Health Services Division

The Symptoms of Coronavirus: Know the Warning Signs

A novel coronavirus known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally since late December 2019. The virus causes a disease known as COVID-19, which is responsible for tens of thousands of illnesses and thousands of deaths.

Do Facemasks Prevent Disease?

Some viruses can spread through airborne droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, it releases droplets into the air. Those droplets then can land in the mouth, nose, or eyes of uninfected people close by and make them sick.

How Does the Coronavirus Compare with the Flu?

The novel coronavirus Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is drawing comparisons to influenza, the seasonal flu. Reports of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, the disease it causes, began in China in late December 2019, in the middle of flu season. COVID-19 and the flu cause similar respiratory symptoms, but the two have many differences.

• UPMC Information on COVID-19
• Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus Update
• World Health Organization
• Pennsylvania Department of Health
• Click to subscribe for COVID-19 email updates