Deadly Virus is Spreading; its Impact is Escalating

Coronavirus is now a global public health emergency.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a developing story and ICD10monitor will continue to update you on the latest development on this global health crisis.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus a global public health emergency on Jan. 31. As of Feb. 3, the coronavirus has spread to 24 countries, and the first death outside of China has been reported in the Philippines.  

This situation is changing day by day. There are 17,205 confirmed cases in China, with the death toll rising to 361. This incident now surpasses the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003, which was made up of 8,098 confirmed cases.   

The United States began removing its diplomatic staff and U.S. citizens from the affected region in China last week. The 195 citizens that were evacuated will remain at a U.S. military base until mid-February. Additional flights may be arranged by the U.S. to evacuate U.S. citizens. Hong Kong has suspended 10 out of 13 border crossings with China to limit the spread of the disease. Other countries that have instituted travel bans include Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Australia. Cruise lines are banning travelers who have been to China within the last two weeks, and airlines are halting flights to China.

There are 11 confirmed cases in the U.S. Most are in California, with others reported in Massachusetts, Washington, Arizona, and Illinois.

The virus has also caused havoc with international markets. The Dow Jones Industrial average dropped over 600 points (2 percent), and the Chinese market has decreased by almost 9 percent. Analysts are concerned that the virus could impact global growth this year.

WHO is recommending the following practices to reduce exposure:

• Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water;
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands;
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever and cough;
• If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your healthcare provider;
• When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of a novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals;
• The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk, or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, per good food safety practices.

Coronaviruses consist of a large family of respiratory viruses that can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and SARS. In case of symptoms suggestive of acute respiratory illness, travelers are encouraged to seek medical attention and share travel history with their healthcare providers.  

Contrary to some Internet posts, a person cannot get this virus from Corona beer. 

Programming Note: Listen to Laurie Johnson report this story live today during Talk Ten Tuesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. EST.