Log in Subscribe

Precaution goes far

Posted 2/18/20

Since the Novel Coronavirus outbreak began in China around December, 2019, it has spread to at least 29 countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that there are over 70,000 cases …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Precaution goes far

Posted

Since the Novel Coronavirus outbreak began in China around December, 2019, it has spread to at least 29 countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that there are over 70,000 cases globally and the disease has resulted in some 1,775 deaths.

The overwhelming majority of infections and all but a handful of deaths have occurred in China.

While this outbreak is serious and should be treated with vigilance, it's important to stay calm and keep a few things in perspective. Even a virus with a low fatality rate can kill many people if the number of infec- tions is large, and the flu is routinely responsible for many more hospitalizations and deaths in the U.S.

We're currently in the grip of flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) estimates that since October, 2019, the flu has caused at least 26 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths.

Sullivan County Public Health Services reminds everyone that it's not too late to get vaccinated. Call Sullivan County Public Health Services for an appointment at (845) 292-5910 x 0, or contact your healthcare provider or area pharmacy.

Sullivan County Government released a statement earlier this month stating that there are currently no confirmed cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus in New York State. Public Health Services said they are monitoring the situation closely with State and Federal partners as part of their routine emergency preparedness.

“We gained a great deal of experience in responding effectively to last year's measles outbreak, and our staff is prepared for any situation, should it occur,” stated Nancy McGraw, Public Health Director. “We have also reached out to area healthcare providers to provide information.”

Fear about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus is natural and understandable, as it is for any new virus that has not been previously found in humans. It's easy to confuse with other coronaviruses that have been around for many years and also cause upper respiratory symptoms that can resemble the flu - including fever, cough and shortness of breath.

“Individuals who are experiencing symptoms and may have traveled to areas of concern (particularly Wuhan, China), or who have been in contact with somebody who has traveled to these areas, should call ahead to their healthcare provider before seeking treatment in person,” Public Health Services said.

While there is currently no vaccine to prevent or treat this virus, there are precautions each of us can take to help mitigate risk to ourselves and others.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

With calm heads and simple precautions, we can all do our part to help prevent the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here