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The virus’ epicenter is Wuhan, China but it has since spread to other countries worldwide.
While China is, in fact, half a world away from the Eastern Sierra, the natural wonders that we all love are also a draw for people from around the world, including China. Being informed on the facts of the corona virus is essential to making smart decisions.

Nearly 18,000 people have been infected with the disease worldwide in just two months. The virus has claimed the lives of hundreds of people in China and has spread to two dozen countries around the world, including the United States.

Here’s what to know about coronavirus:

  • What is coronavirus?
    According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as pneumonia, SARS, and Middle East respiratory syndrome or MERS.
  • What are the symptoms?
    The symptoms of the virus are similar to the common flu. They include fever,
    shortness of breath, and a cough, according to the CDC. ln more severe cases, infection can lead to severe acute respiratory syndrome,kidney failure or death. The CDC believes at this time that symptoms may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 after exposure. At this point, experts say travel history plays the biggest role in determining whether you have flu or cold-like symptoms versus the coronavirus. lf you haven’t traveled to Wuhan, China, you’re likely in the clear.
    Officials have confirmed that the coronavirus can be transmitted between humans, which often happens when someone comes into contact with theinfected person’s secretions – such as through coughing or sneezing. According to the CDC, the virus can also be transmitted by touching something an infected person has touched then touching your mouth, eyes, or nose.  ln Chicago, a woman infected her husband with the virus, which was the first confirmed person-to-person case in the U.S.

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  • ls there a vaccine? How is it treated?
    There is no vaccine yet, but health officials say those infected may get some relief
    by taking pain or fever medications, drinking plenty of liquids, and resting.
    While there is no vaccine, people can reduce the risk of infection by avoiding
    those who are sick, washing their hands often, and avoiding touching the eyes,
    nose, and mouth. lf you don’t feel well, please stay home from work, school,
    shopping, banking, so you don’t infect others. lf you need to go to the doctor, call
    them first so they can treat you effectively while avoiding the disease being
    spread to others.

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