President Trump and the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) announced today (Friday, March 20) there have been over 14,000 confirmed cases and 200 deaths due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). More coronavirus testing is being done in all states! The NIH Director indicated at least 70,000 cases could be confirmed by next weekend with many more deaths as hospitals will be extremely crowded.
In contrast, the CDC estimates there have been at least 38 million flu illnesses, 390,000 hospitalizations and 23,000 deaths from the flu during this season since last October. So what is worse? The coronavirus or the flu?
It appears the flu is by far worse this season, but the coronavirus has yet to peak per the CDC and National Institute of Health (NIH). Many feel it will be another three months before we know the actual results. Meanwhile people are asked to stay home to prevent more flu or other virus cases and deaths.
California’s Governor announced a statewide lockdown for all residents this morning to prevent the COVID-19 virus from being a pandemic! Other states such as New York and Illinois are doing the same, but most states ask their residents to take this threat very serious and do a self quarantine at home or practice social distancing of 6 to 8 feet from others.
The CDC has these recommendations:
Know How it Spreads
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Take steps to protect yourself
Clean your hands often
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Take steps to protect others
Stay home if you’re sick
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
Cover coughs and sneezes
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
Throw used tissues in the trash.
Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Wear a facemask if you are sick
If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick. Use a N95 facemask for best protection available at most general stores, home improvement stores and pharmacies.
If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
Clean and disinfect
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.