5 Reasons Why You Should Not Panic About The Coronavirus
Look, like it or not, the Coronavirus is here, and everyone should be taking the necessary precautions. But there's one thing we should not be doing, and that's panic.
Now with all the information we're getting from health officials, and all the lifestyle changes we are experiencing, it's easy to freak out about the virus, but according to scientist's in the know, being vigilant is much more important then tending to panic.
According to weforum.org, and a renowned microbiologist, here are five good reasons why you should be concerned, but not be in a state of panic when it comes to dealing with the Coronavirus:
- 1
We Have Already Identified the Virus
There have been many other viruses that have taken some time to identify. The first AIDS cases were discovered in June of 1981. It took more then two years before scientists were able to identify the HIV Virus. With the Coronavirus, the first cases were reported in China in late December, and by January 7, the virus had been identified.
- 2
81% of Cases Are Mild
Some people, around 81% of those that have tested positive for the virus, have experienced very mild or no symptoms at all. However for 14%, it can cause more severe symptoms, and in 5%, it can become critical or even fatal. Since it's still considered a new virus, it's unclear what the death rate may be. It could be lower than some estimates so far.
- 3
Knowing What the Word "Pandemic" Means
Of course we can classify the Coronavirus as a pandemic, but pandemic does not mean it's lethal. It actually refers to how a virus is transmitted and how far it's spread, the geographical extension. Since the virus is highly contagious, and it has spread simultaneously through at least three geographical areas, then it would be considered a pandemic.
- 4
The Virus Can Be Eliminated by Cleaning
One of the bright spots when it comes to the Coronavirus is that it can be wiped clean from surfaces. If you use a solution of ethanol, which includes between 62-71% alcohol, and hydrogen peroxide or sodium hypochlorite, you can clean surfaces before they get infected. Als, remember that washing hands frequently with soap and water is another way we can stay protected.
- 5
There Are Already Vaccines Being Tested
Scientists from all over the globe are working around the clock on vaccines to combat the Coronavirus. Compare that to the 2003 SARS epidemic when it took more then a year to get to the point we are at now, or in the 1918 Flu Pandemic that killed more then 25 million people in less then 25 weeks before work even started on a vaccine.
So, as you can see, the powers that be are on top of this virus and making great strides everyday. Public officials are being vigilant and keeping everyone updated, and taking the necessary precautions as needed. All we need to do now is stay calm, follow some simple steps like washing hands and staying away from others if we feel symptoms, and most importantly, don't panic.
Any resident that is not currently showing symptoms of the virus (two or three days of fever, cough, and shortness of breath) can dial 211 at any time with any basic questions.
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The Governor's Office has also provided residents with some important messages to keep in mind:
- People without symptoms should not be tested for COVID-19. Testing individuals with no symptoms is not recommended by CDC.
- If you were with someone who does not have symptoms, the risk of transmission is very low.
- There are many respiratory illnesses circulating in Connecticut, such as the flu and the common cold. Having respiratory symptoms does not mean that you have COVID-19.
- People are at higher risk for COVID-19 if they have symptoms of the virus (cough, fever, shortness of breath) AND if they were a contact of a positive case of COVID-19 (or have traveled to country with community transmission, such as China, Italy, South Korea, Iran, and Japan).
- Someone is considered a contact if they have had direct, face-to-face contact with a person with COVID-19.
- People who think they have COVID-19 should call their healthcare provider. These people should not go directly to a healthcare facility without first calling a healthcare provider (unless they are experiencing a medical emergency).
- People with general questions about COVID-19 can visit ct.gov/coronavirus or call 2-1-1.
- Everyone can help stop the spread of viruses in Connecticut.
- Get your flu shot, and make sure the people around you do the same.
- Wash your hands often throughout the day. Use warm water and soap. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow. Viruses can spread by coughing or sneezing on other people or into your hands.
- Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.
- Keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant.
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