Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): What dental practitioners need to know

COVID-19 FAQs, page 4

4. Who is at risk of exposure to COVID-19?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), at this time, most members of the American public are unlikely to be exposed to this virus, and the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low. However, certain groups may have a higher risk of exposure. These include the following:

1. People in communities where ongoing community spread with the virus that causes COVID-19 has been reported may be at elevated risk.
2. Healthcare workers and family members caring for patients with COVID-19 are at elevated risk of exposure.
3. Close contacts of persons with COVID-19 are at elevated risk of exposure.
4. Travelers returning from affected international locations where community spread is occurring also are at elevated risk of exposure.
5. Anyone in or working in a congregate setting, such as a nursing home, a long-term care facility, prisons, and possibly retirement communities, is at elevated risk.