1.) What is it? The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain infectious disease that consists of a large group of viruses. The Coronavirus causes symptoms such as a fever, cough, and disruption of the respiratory system.
2.) Where did it come from? The spread of the disease began in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Although the true specific origin of this outbreak is unknown, the disease link from early Wuhan patients came via live-animal and seafood markets. Previous cases have studied the disease can be passed from animals such as snakes, bats, camels, and cats. These animals are known for carrying the Coronavirus. There is a viral video of a bat being passed around and stated as the culprit of the virus. Factually speaking, no one officially knows through what animal or method this epidemic began. The picture below is speculative.
2.) How does the disease spread to humans? Through person to person contact with an infected carrier, touching infected surfaces, or from respiratory droplets in the air passed on from a Coronavirus infected person who coughs or sneezes.
3.)
Has it spread to the U.S.? As of January 25, 2020, Seattle and Chicago are the two cities confirmed for having an infected person with the Coronavirus. The two isolated cases involve someone who traveled to Wuhan and came back to the U.S. and began having symptoms. 50 people in 22 states are currently under observation for determining if they have the illness. This number will increase in the days ahead. U.S. citizens are being encouraged not to freak out. The Center for Disease Control is working around the clock and will help keep us all informed with pertinent updates. Visit the
CDC website for consistent updates.
4.) How can we protect ourselves? Personal hygiene is important. Wash your hands! All day, every day. Cough into your shoulder and not into the air. Masks help and can be used for protection if needed. If in doubt, call or visit a doctor or medical professional for help.
