BY: Shuntia Gowdy
To panic or not to panic? The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (SARS-CoV-2) has quickly became a pandemic, and many people across the world are starting to take precautions. COVID-19 was first discovered in China, and has since been detected in many other places across the world, including the United States. It is a part of a variation of viruses that is seen in humans and other animal species. The animal coronavirus rarely has an affect on humans. The virus spreads person-to-person.
Illness symptoms have been reported to range from mild to severe, including fatalities. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, older people and people of all ages with severe underlying health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes seem to be at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness.
It is likely that there will soon be more cases of the virus in the United States due to the community spread. If there is a widespread transmission, which is likely, many individuals will need medical care at the same time. Schools, daycares, workplaces, businesses, and organizations may start to experience closures and postponements. Healthcare and public health systems may become overloaded with many hospitalizations and fatalities. There is currently no vaccine or medication approved to treat the virus.
Sporting events and sports teams are starting to announce postponements and cancelations. On Wednesday night, the NBA suspended their season when Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz tested positive for the virus. The SEC, Big 12, and Pac-12 are just a few that have canceled their tournaments. The MLB canceled spring training and will delay the start of the regular season. The NFL canceled its annual meeting, but will not be delaying the start of the league year as if now.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may occur 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. If you have recently traveled to or from an area that has had a spread of the virus, have encountered someone who has it, or if you have symptoms, you are encouraged to call your doctor.Since the coronavirus is rapidly spreading, there are ongoing investigations and updates being posted as they come in. For more information and real updates on COVID-19, go to www.cdc.gov.