The NMHC and NAA offer advice on how apartment owners and managers should tackle the issue, if the virus continues to spread.

The globe has been buzzing about the outbreak and subsequent spread of the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. As of March 4, the World Health Organization has confirmed 108 cases in the United States and six deaths. With the potential to spread further, the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) and the National Apartment Association (NAA) have shared some precautionary guidance and advice on how multifamily communities should address the virus, should it continue to become a larger issue.

In a recent press release, the NMHC indicated that a mass outbreak of COVID-19 isn’t certain. However, “to proceed without a plan is a risk your company should not take,” the organization said, adding that firms should have a plan in place and fine-tune it, as necessary. See below for various industry-specific tips on how to proceed.

• Both multifamily organizations agree to direct residents, media, and stakeholder inquiries to primary sources, such as the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for specific guidance and data beyond the general precautionary measures for legal liability reasons.