Kern County health officials are on high alert, thought the risk of the deadly Coronavirus, which first broke out in China, is unlikely to travel to the county.
On Wednesday, world health officials confirmed 7000 confirmed cases of the virus, a 2,500 increase since Tuesday.
The virus has killed 170 people so far, predominately in China and has spread to 15 other countries, including five confirmed cases in the United States, according to the World Health Organization.
Two cases have been confirmed in California -- one case in Los Angeles County and the other in Orange County. A third possible case is being investigated in San Diego, but has not been confirmed yet.
Meantime, Michelle Corson, a spokeswoman for the Kern County Department of Public Health, wants residents in the county to be aware.
Though Meadows Field airport doesn't fly international, Corson said the virus can spread from human to human.
Coroson urges individuals to maintain good hygiene, including washing hands regularly.
Corson says if symptoms of fever, runny nose, cough or respiratory symptoms occur after coming in contact with anyone who recently traveled to China, get checked by a doctor immediately.
