Since January 2020, the Coronavirus, officially naked COVID-19, has killed over 2,000 people and is rapidly  becoming a global epidemic. The virus is similar to the flu and characterized by a runny nose, headache, cough, sore throat, fever, or general feeling of being unwell. People infected with the Coronavirus are more susceptible to other illnesses like pneumonia, and even death.

If you have traveled to China recently and begin to feel any of these symptoms in 14 days since traveling, Johns Hopkins Medicine states that you should contact your healthcare provider and inform them about where you have traveled and your symptoms. 

Over 75,000 people have contracted the Coronavirus but only 2,000 of these people have died. There are many different strains of this virus and a new type was discovered in December of 2019, called “2019 novel coronavirus,” which has resulted in over 2,000 deaths worldwide. The virus is spread from human to human, but there is not enough research yet to know how contagious it is. Health officials believe the Coronavirus originated with animals and spread to humans. 

There is currently no official way for treatment on the virus. The National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases does give suggestions on how to not contract the virus. The best way to remain healthy is to avoid contact with those infected with the virus, and to avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth. 

The Coronavirus has been found in 24 countries outside of China. Researchers have said that countries around Asia and Africa have a high risk of the virus going there. America has seen 15 people contract the virus, all of whom recently returned from visits to China. 

Due to the increasing rate at which the Coronavirus is spreading, gaining global traction both scientifically and in headlines, it is more important than ever to be aware of the threat and take precautions to prevent it. Remember to be conscious of touching your face and avoid contact with individuals who exhibit symptoms or general illness. Now the next steps for civilians to take against Coronavirus are to stay alert of its global distribution and to track the rates at which this disease spreads.