Corona Virus Outbreak in China

January 15, 2020 Kusum Wagle Public Health News 0

Key Points:

  • There is an outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China preliminarily identified to be caused by a novel (new) coronavirus.
  • So far there have been no confirmed reports of person-to-person spread. However, limited person-to-person spread may be possible.
  • Reportedly, most patients have had links to a large seafood and live animal market. Health officials closed the market on January 1, 2020, for cleaning and disinfection.
  • Travelers to Wuhan, China, should avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and contact with sick people.
  • The situation is evolving. This notice will be updated as more information becomes available.

What can Travelers do to Protect Themselves?

Travelers to Wuhan should:

  • Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
  • Avoid contact with sick people.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

If you traveled to Wuhan and feel sick, you should:

  • Stay home. Except for seeking medical care, avoid contact with others.
  • Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
  • Not travel while sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

Please see the following website for more information:

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china

WHO, Coronavirus

 

About Kusum Wagle 244 Articles
Ms. Kusum Wagle is a seasoned public health expert with more than a decade of experience in the public health sector. She has pursued Masters in Public Health (MPH) as a WHO-TDR Scholar from BRAC James P. Grant School of Public Health, Bangladesh. Ms. Wagle have gained profound experiences in public health sector under different thematic areas of health, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, maternal and newborn health, research etc., targeting diverse audience of different age groups. She has performed diverse roles ranging from Lecturer in the public health department of colleges, Nutrition Program Manager, Research Manager and Consultants in different programs, projects and academic institutions of Nepal. Ms. Wagle also holds an immense experience in working closely and persistently with the government agencies, non-government organizations, UN agencies, CSOs and other stakeholders at the national and sub-national level. She has successfully led and coordinated different projects involving multi-sector participation and engagement and is also regularly involved in the development of different national level health and nutrition guidelines, manuals and frameworks.