By Thomas Gibbons
On Thursday, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 4 warning that Americans should not travel to China due to the recent outbreak of the coronavirus. The death toll has now reached 213 people, and more than 100 cases in China and 20 other countries.
The official statement from the U.S. Dept. of State:
Do not travel to China due to the novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China. On January 30, the World Health Organization determined the rapidly spreading outbreak constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. Commercial carriers have reduced or suspended routes to and from China.
Those currently in China should consider departing using commercial means. The Department of State has requested that all non-essential U.S. government personnel defer travel to China in light of the novel coronavirus.
In an effort to contain the novel coronavirus, the Chinese authorities have suspended air, road, and rail travel in the area around Wuhan. They have also placed restrictions on travel and other activities throughout the country. On January 23, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their family members from Wuhan. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Hubei province. On January 29, 2020, the Department of State allowed for the voluntary departure of non-emergency personnel and family members of U.S. government employees from China.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning for all of China. The CDC has published suggestions on how to reduce your risk of contracting the Novel Coronavirus. Visit the CDC webpage for expanded information about the Novel Coronavirus, including prevention, signs and symptoms, and treatment.
The first two cases in Chicago were reported on Thursday. A wife, who caught the disease while in China, has spread the virus to her husband. This marks the sixth confirmed case of the virus in the United States. Both are currently at Amita Health St. Alexius Medical Center Hoffman Estates and in stable condition.
In addition, medical officials are investigating 21 other possible cases of the coronavirus. These people have been placed in isolation for the reason of showing symptoms of the virus.
The Center for Disease Control has issued the following preventive actions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- 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
It is very important to take action to prevent the coronavirus in order to keep the United States as safe and healthy as possible.