With the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continuing to evolve rapidly, information about the virus is changing daily, if not hourly. San Juan Regional Medical Center wants you to know that keeping our communities safe and healthy is our number one priority. As of March 4, 2020, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in New Mexico.

According to the CDC, the risk of getting COVID-19 in the United States is currently low. Additionally, 80 percent of people who contract the virus will have a relatively mild illness which should not require hospitalization. Nonetheless, we are preparing for a potentially large number of patients.

San Juan Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Preparedness Team, an interdisciplinary group of physicians, nurses, infection control specialists, and other professionals, is diligently working on institutional preparedness. The team is continually monitoring the situation both abroad and at home, working in partnership with our city and county public safety and emergency management partners to protect the health and safety of our communities. 

SJRMC hosts community partners. On Tuesday, March 3rd, San Juan Regional Medical Center hosted a meeting of key local stakeholders. Participants included representatives from the city, county, local school districts, law enforcement, fire department and New Mexico Department of Health. The purpose of the meeting was to provide updates on the planning activities currently underway across our county and to develop a plan for coordination and communication as the COVID-19 situation develops. We are working together to ensure that our response is coordinated in order to best care for our community.

On Friday, February 28th, San Juan Regional Medical Center’s Medical Director of Emergency Preparedness Dr. Brad Greenberg and CEO/ President Jeff Bourgeois released a video of the current situation.

What can I do?

This is probably the most common question everyone has. Fortunately, following simple steps can make a big difference in avoiding getting sick.

• Wash you hands frequently and thoroughly especially after touching common public surfaces like door knobs, counters and rest room areas.
• Cover your cough in your elbow. Most viruses are spread through droplets in the air from coughs and sneezes. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick or have flu like symptoms.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Anyone who is sick with flu-like symptoms should not visit patients in the hospital or Emergency Room. 

Stay informed

San Juan Regional Medical Center now has a Coronavirus Information Hotline up and running to share important information with our community. You can call 505.516.0938 or 888.949.5387. We will continue updating this information as necessary to provide our patients and community members with the information they need to protect themselves and their loved ones. We have also created a webpage dedicated to information about coronavirus to help you stay informed. Visit: https://www.sanjuanregional.com/coronavirus