Hawaii County and the state of Hawaii on Wednesday announced that they had collaborated to produce an informational brochure to inform folks about the 2019 novel coronavirus.

“Becoming informed and taking personal responsibility is our best preventive action,” DOH Director Bruce Anderson said in a press release. “We urge everyone to learn about the 2019 novel coronavirus and to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and family members.”

The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide the best and most reliable information on:

• what you need to know about the coronavirus;
• health advisories and actions taken by government to contain the coronavirus;
• what you can do to keep yourself safe; and
• how to keep updated on issues that may affect you.

Here’s one excerpt: “Symptoms include mild to severe respiratory illness, cough and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, and fever.”

“Some patients may not report fever, especially the very young, elderly, those not able to fight infections, and those taking fever-lowering medications,” the guide explains.

And here’s another excerpt: “Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If no soap and water is available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.”