Does anyone remember SARS? It was a big deal way back in aught two (2002, that is). SARS infections claimed almost 800 lives. 2019-nCoV and SARS are both forms of coronavirus that can affect the respiratory system and lead to pneumonia. This is more of a concern in those with compromised immune systems, young children, and the elderly. So far, reporting on the new virus was surrounded with caution, yet it remained optimistic. In the previous articles about the new virus posted on USArealist.com, it was noted that health officials from China, Japan, the USA, and the WHO all expressed the same sentiment that transmission of the disease was unlikely to be spread from human contact.
This initial assessment was based upon the belief that the virus originated in China and was specifically related to contact with animals at a local market in Wuhan City. As stated in the original article on USArealist.com, one of the biggest threats to containment is the globalized society in which we live.
Infections are spreading and so far about 300 people have tested positive for 2019-nCoV that resulted in 6 reported deaths in China. Health officials globally are appearing to be proactive in their response to the updated data that shows a spike in infections being reported across the globe. Numerous airports are stepping up efforts to contain the spread of the virus through enhanced health screening. So Far, cases have been identified in China, Japan, Thailand, and South Korea.
A recent article from the Associated Press indicated the risk associated with treating the virus as health worker infections are growing.
“ “Fifteen medical workers have also tested positive for the virus, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission said.
Two cases in Guangdong were people who had not visited Wuhan but fell ill after family members returned from there. Zhong cited those as evidence the disease had spread between humans.”
Zhong Nanshan is a health expert from China.
Although the new virus can cause alarm, there should be an overwhelming sense of relief that governments are sharing data and stepping up screening to try and contain the outbreak. The response to 2019-nCoV is quicker and more coordinated than the response to SARS. Also, although there have been some fatalities, the symptoms of infection seem to be milder than other coronaviruses lessening the potential for a mass-casualty event.