Coronavirus – 7 Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Coronavirus?

“Coronavirus” is an umbrella term for many types of viruses. This group of viruses has been known for decades and can cause respiratory diseases in both people and animals. What has been most publicized lately is the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) which is a new strain. According to the World Health Organization, this strain had not been previously identified in humans.

The 2019-nCoV has infected thousands of people, mainly in Wuhan, China, since December 2019. But, as of February 7, 2020, it has hit every inhabited continent. Of course, with several cases occurring around the world, including the US, this has resulted in a public scare of a global epidemic.

Should you be concerned?

Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) takes this very seriously, they consider the immediate health risk from 2019-nCoV to the general American public low as of February 7. Yet, it’s always a good idea to be informed and follow safety precautions to keep the risk down and avoid the virus from spreading.

What are the Coronavirus symptoms?

Those infected with 2019-nCoV show varied symptoms. They can be mildly sick or severely ill. The death toll has risen to 638, with more than 31,503 confirmed cases worldwide as of February 7.

According to the CDC, 2019-nCoV symptoms may include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath and may appear after exposure in as little as 2 days or as many as 14 days.

How does it spread?

Initially, officials thought that only animals, such as bats or camels, carry and transmit the virus. However, Chinese researchers reported that the virus can spread from person to person, too. Right now, it’s not clear how easily this virus is spreading between people.

The CDC believes that the virus spreads similarly to influenza pathogens. That means it is possible to contract it by being in contact with an infected person that’s coughing or sneezing or simply by touching contaminated surfaces.

In which US states can I contract the Coronavirus?

According to the CDC, the states with the 12 confirmed 2019-nCoV cases are Washington, California, Arizona, Illinois, and Massachusetts as of February 7. Also, there are 293 patients under investigation (PUIs) in 36 states.

What do I do if I’m sick?

If you live in the US, the chances of getting sick with 2019-nCoV are extremely slim. But if you think you’ve got it, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Keep in mind there’s no specific antiviral treatment recommended for 2019-nCoV infection, but those infected should receive supportive care, nevertheless. And stay home if you’ve got the symptoms!

How can I prevent contracting 2019-nCoV?

As of February 7, there’s no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection, so follow these everyday tips to avoid being exposed to the virus:

  • Avoid traveling to China, especially to Wuhan city.
  • If you’re visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of 2019-nCoV, avoid direct contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals.
  • Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or more. This is the best way to get rid of germs from your hands. As an alternative, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • If you haven’t washed your hands, don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Keep a safe distance from people that are infected.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then dispose of it in the trash.
  • The objects and surfaces that are touched often should be cleaned and disinfected. Use disposable microfiber cloths and antimicrobial products that are effective against Coronavirus.

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