Recent headlines have swirled around Wuhan, China's new strain of coronavirus that has infected more than 600 people worldwide. Since then, the unprecedented virus has spread beyond Wuhan to many countries including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore and, most recently, the United States. The Center for Disease Control confirmed Tuesday's first case of the virus in the state of Washington, raising concerns over a national outbreak
While much of the virus is still unknown, there are many ways to implement healthy best practices, particularly during travel. Here's what we know so far about the new coronavirus, and some of our tips to stay healthy:
Which exactly is the Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses, named for their crown-like spikes, are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory-tract infections ranging from common cold to more serious illnesses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Although most commonly found in animals such as cattle, cats, and bats, animal coronaviruses can in some cases infect and spread among humans, such as with SARs, which sickened nearly 8,000 in a 2003 outbreak.
How does Coronavirus get transmitted?
Early reports of the latest coronavirus were related to Wuhan markets selling live animals and seafood, indicating transmission between animals and humans. Nevertheless, a growing number of infected humans have not had contact with any animal markets, according to the CDC, indicating human-to-human transmission could be involved. Currently seven coronaviruses are known to infect humans including the new strain. The CDC states that human coronaviruses are usually transmitted by coughing, sneezing, close personal contact like rubbing or shaking hands or touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands.
What are symptoms of Coronavirus?
Patients with the new Wuhan coronavirus have had a number of mild to severe symptoms of respiratory illness so far. Some reported fever, cough, shortness of breath and, in some cases, inflammation of the pneumonia and lungs. Milder symptoms such as a runny nose and sore throat can make it difficult to recognize the new coronavirus. Tell your healthcare provider if you have recently traveled to China (or come into contact with someone who has) and encounter symptoms associated with Wuhan coronavirus, or think you may have been exposed.
How can I protect myself from Coronavirus?
The magnitude of Wuhan coronavirus is only starting to be recognized by researchers and public health authorities. The CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend avoiding contact with anyone who may have had contact with the virus and practicing good hygiene in the same way that you would protect yourself from flu:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you're sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
How is Coronavirus affecting travel?
CDC officials have started screening passengers from Wuhan at international airports such as LAX, SFO and JFK and this week will expand screenings to Atlanta and Chicago O'Hare airports. The U.S. Agency for Public Health, as well as at the State Department, advises travelers to avoid all non-essential travel to Wuhan and be vigilant when traveling to other parts of China. If you are planning to travel to China in the near future, you should protect yourself by doing the following:
- Avoid contact with sick people and those with acute respiratory tract infections
- Avoid animals (live or dead), animal markets, and animal products.
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
If you or someone you know may have had contact with Wuhan coronavirus please contact your provider as soon as possible. For more information on the virus and alerts please refer to the CDC or WHO.
