Coronavirus Part 2

Hi Everyone,

I thought I’d try to keep all of you updated on the latest thinking about our current risk of exposure to the coronavirus and suggestions for how to best respond to the coronavirus outbreak. And as I said in my last post, I think referring to credible sources rather than the media is what makes the most sense. 

Risk Assessment

With that in  mind here is a summary from March 3rd from the Center for Disease Control regarding our current risk:

“At this time, however, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus. This virus is NOT currently spreading widely in the United States. However, it is important to note that current global circumstances suggest it is likely that this virus will cause a pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation and the risk assessment will be updated as needed.

Current risk assessment:

• For most of the American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low.

• People in communities where ongoing community spread with the virus that causes COVID-19 has been reported are at elevated, though still relatively low risk of exposure.

• Healthcare workers caring for patients with COVID-19 are at elevated risk of exposure.

• Close contacts of persons with COVID-19 also are at elevated risk of exposure.

• Travelers returning from affected international locations where community spread is occurring also are at elevated risk of exposure.”

My reading is that the risk is still quite low and I think there is some danger of overreacting and being far more cautious than necessary.

 What Should We Do?

Once again leaning on the recommendations from the CDC:

“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. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• 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 using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.

  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.

  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to  others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.”

I hope this is helpful and as I learn more I may send out additional posts to update you all.

Best,

Dr Bob