There is a lot of concern about the coronavirus disease (also known as COVID-19) in the news, for a good reason. First detected in Wuhan City, China, this virus is now in 30+ countries including US. So far, there are 75,000+ cases in China, close to 2000 cases outside China and more than 50 cases in US. Unfortunately, there are 2500+ deaths due to this virus. This already became more than three times more serious than the previous major virus, SARS, in 2002.
We should not panic but we should follow some basic prevention guidelines. The most common way that this virus spreads is from person-to-person when people are within about 6 feet from one another. When the infected person coughs or sneezes, the respiratory droplets are produced and could land in the mouths or noses of people nearby.How do you prevent it? There are three simple measures you can take.
- Wear a facemask if you are flying or going to be in crowded places like conventions or malls.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes in crowded areas.
- A good practice all the time – washing hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds regularly.
Please learn more about Coronavirus and COVID-19 at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html and https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
