NewsYour Health MattersAsk Dr. Nandi

Actions

New infections further raise concerns about Coronavirus

Posted at 6:04 PM, Jan 22, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-22 18:04:53-05

(WXYZ) — Unfortunately, a Chinese government-appointed expert has confirmed that two cases of the new Coronavirus has been transmitted person-to-person.

The pneumonia-like virus has spread between family members in the Guangdong province in southern China, after one of them returned home from visiting the animal market in Wuhan where officials had traced the new strain to.

Also, some medical workers have tested positive as well. So this is a bit worrying, especially since the first case of it here in the US was confirmed in Washington state yesterday.

The incubation period can last a week. So it’s possible that someone could be infected and not show any of the key symptoms like fever, cough and trouble breathing.

I highly recommend taking preventative steps to avoid germs, like washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.

Basically WHO is recommending that anyone who visits live animal markets or animal product markets to practice general hygiene measures. So things like:

  • washing your hands after touching animals
  • avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose and
  • stay away from any animal that appears sick.

Also, they want you to avoid stray cats, dogs, birds or any type of animal that might possibly be living there. And to avoid touching animal waste or fluids, which may not just be on the ground, but on any part of the market facility.

They also recommend that you don’t eat raw or undercooked animal products. And to be careful when handling raw meat along with milk and any animal organs.

Lastly, make sure you avoid cross-contamination with food that’s not been cooked.