If you’ve caught the news recently, you’re probably wondering whether coronavirus is going to shake up your day-to-day life.
So far the virus has spread across six continents, and it seems inevitable the threat will increase over the coming weeks.
We’ve put together this FAQ to bring you some help, tips and perspective. For the moment, you probably don’t need to panic or quarantine yourself. But it won’t hurt to stay clued up on the official advice (from the CDC and the WHO) as detailed below.
Think you’re coming down with something? Concerned about your sniffling colleague? Worried you’ll have to cancel your holiday plans? Stay up to date with our guide to the latest coronavirus guidance and developments.
What is coronavirus?
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that started in animals and is now being transmitted between humans. The symptoms include coughs, fever, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. First identified in Wuhan, China, the virus has (as of March 11) affected more than 119,000 people in 120 countries. Some 4,300 have died, while just over half have already recovered.
How bad is coronavirus?
Unlike flu, there is no vaccine (yet), and recovery depends on the strength of the immune system. In severe cases the virus may cause pneumonia and/or organ failure.
Compared to SARS (another coronavirus that hit headlines in 2003), the mortality rate of COVID-19 is low: around 3.4 percent according to the latest World Health Organisation estimate. This is, however, significantly higher than regular seasonal flu, which is fatal in around 0.1 percent of cases. So far, COVID-19 also appears to be more contagious than seasonal flu.
The elderly and those with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease are most likely to develop a severe illness relating to COVID-19. The death rate is ten times higher among the very elderly compared with the middle-aged, according to the WHO. Children are less likely to be affected.
What’s the latest coronavirus news for the USA?
To check the current COVID-19 measures and travel guidelines for the USA, check here.
Which countries have been worst hit by coronavirus?
You can keep track of the spread of the disease on this map created by Johns Hopkins University. The WHO advises against traveling to areas experiencing ongoing transmission of COVID-19.
How will coronavirus affect my day-to-day life?
First: don’t panic.
The spread of the virus outside China wasn’t unexpected, and governments have been making plans and issuing advice.
The CDC advises calling a medical professional if you develop symptoms and are aware you’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, or have recently traveled to one of the above areas. For the time being, most people should continue going to work, school and other public places as usual.
Should I avoid traveling because of coronavirus?
Check the CDC for up-to date information and policies.
