Coronavirus, formally referred to as COVID-19, is the mysterious, contagious disease that’s been slowly affecting the globe since December 2019. People are afraid, as there appear to be so few details about how the disease is spread. Cases have been popping up in China for the most part, (as it first started to spread in Wuhan, China) but the United States is currently dealing with a few instances as well. Today, the New York Times shared that there have been confirmed cases in at least 60 countries.
The second case of coronavirus in New York was confirmed today.
This strain of the coronavirus once primarily affected animals. As written in The Guardian, it was initially central those who came in contact with Hunan’s seafood market. The virus has been linked to cases of pneumonia, which can have fatal affects on those with compromised immune systems. The Guardian also reported that the majority of those who have died already has weakened immune systems.
Though there’s a limited amount of information, it’s important that we share what experts do know, so that as few people are affected as possible.
Below is our list of what you need to know about coronavirus.
Coronavirus can be destroyed by disinfectants.
HuffPost reported that coronavirus is a “lipid-containing virus,” which means that it can be killed with disinfecting wipes. It’s crucial to wipe down items that you touch frequently, like your phone, and also surfaces that multiple people come in contact with on a daily basis.
You should wear a face mask.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) website has shared that coronavirus is spread through close contact with an infected person, or the respiratory droplets expelled when they breathe, cough or sneeze. Wearing masks lessens the chances of infection and spread.
You should wash your hands regularly.
This goes without saying, but it’s important to keep your hands clean. It’s imperative to wash your hands with soap and clean water, and wash for about 20 seconds. Singing “Happy Birthday” twice is a perfect way to time your hand washing sessions.