While there is only a small amount of confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the United States, it never hurts to educate yourself on the matter and to find ways to prevent such an illness.
What is Coronavirus?
According to the CDC, there are 7 types of Coronavirus that can affect humans, most types coming from an animal origin. It is just as it says in the name, a virus, this virus inparticular is a RNA virus meaning it needs a host to replicate. The different types of Coronavirus that has been identified to affect humans are known to cause the common cold, laryngitis, pneumonia and other common respiratory tract illnesses. This particular virus has never been seen or identified before which is why it is concerning.
Ways to Prevent Coronavirus:
WASH YOUR HANDS
Wash them with soap for a minimum of 20 seconds
Handwashing mechanically rinses off the virus
COUGH/SNEEZE INTO A TISSUE INSTEAD OF YOUR ELBOW
When you cough into your elbow you can still transfer the virus through contact (think of a hug or carrying a child)
WEAR EXAM GLOVES FOR VIRUS PROTECTION
Always be sure to wash your hands before putting the gloves on and after you take the gloves off
GET THE MOST OUT OF MASKS BY WEARING THEM SNUG
Should fit well against your nose, cheeks and chin
If the mask gets wet, discard and replace immediately
ALWAYS TAKE PRECAUTION
Visitors at a hospital with upper respitory symptoms should wear a mask
Front desk workers should be comfortable talking to patients, asking them to wear a mask if needed and explaining the importance of respiratory etiquette
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Get your flu shot
Don’t be afraid, be educated. Learn more about the Coronavirus here.