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Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey declares public health emergency over coronavirus outbreak

At least nine people have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in Arizona so far.

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has declared a public health emergency over the coronavirus outbreak that has affected at least nine people so far in the state.

The declaration of emergency allows the state to request federal funds and get additional tools and guidance in addressing the issue. 

Ducey also issued an executive order that:

  • Requires nursing homes to implement visitor policies and enhance their symptom checks
  • Says insurance companies must cover out-of-network providers for COVID-19 testing and cover 100% of coronavirus testing
  • Protects people from price gouging

RELATED: 9 people in Arizona test positive for coronavirus

The most recent cases of coronavirus were announced Wednesday. The state department of health services said three people were diagnosed.

Five of the people who tested positive for the coronavirus are in the same Pinal County household. 

RELATED: Pima County Health identifies COVID-19 case

The first case in the Pinal County household is a woman in her 40s who tested positive for the disease on Friday

Two more household members over the age of 60 tested positive on Saturday. 

The Pinal County Public Health Department said Wednesday that two more residents of that household have been diagnosed with COVID-19. 

RELATED: 2 ‘presumptive cases’ of coronavirus confirmed in Pinal County

On person from Pima County tested positive on Monday. 

Three of the cases were in Maricopa County, including the first case in Tempe. The first person has since recovered and has been released from quarantine.

One of the cases of coronavirus in Arizona was travel-related. The other seven were person-to-person. 

There have been no deaths from coronavirus so far in Arizona. 

RELATED: Third person diagnosed with coronavirus in Arizona

RELATED: Previously identified coronavirus case identified as American Leadership Academy member

A hundred people in Arizona have been tested so far for coronavirus. Thirty-two are pending and 59 are ruled out. 

Arizona State University and the University of Arizona are moving spring classes online for a few weeks as a precaution. Housing, food service and health clinics at both universities wil stay open. 

There are no active coronavirus cases at either campus. 

RELATED: ASU classes going online because of coronavirus concerns

RELATED: UArizona moving to online courses due to coronavirus concerns

COVID-19 is believed to spread mostly through respiratory droplets produced when a sick person coughs or sneezes. 

Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. 

The best way to prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases is to:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

You can text FACTS to 602-444-1212 to receive more information on the coronavirus and to ask questions.

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