Updated on 19 January 2020
The Situation:
As of Sunday, 19 January, 17 more people have been diagnosed with a mysterious respiratory illness in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, bringing the total number of cases to 62. Eight people are in serious condition and two have died (both had pre-existing, underlying health issues). All cases in China occurred in Wuhan.
Chinese scientists are calling it a new strain of coronavirus, a large virus family that includes SARs and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Limited person-to-person spreading may occur.
Singapore reported two more suspected cases of the virus in a couple who had recently traveled from Wuhan, they are being treated and isolated as a precaution while being tested. Three other cases, that were originally feared to be the virus, all tested negative. All of those people had also traveled from Wuhan recently.
Japan confirmed its first case of the virus in a man who had traveled from Wuhan. He was treated and released after recovering.
Thailand reported its second confirmed case of the virus, both people had traveled to Wuhan. Of the two cases one has recovered.
The Centers for Disease Control have issued an Alert Level 1 – Practice Usual Precautions. See LINK for further details and updates.
Symptoms to Watch Out For:
Authorities have advised citizens to be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
Fever
Difficulty breathing
Cough
Pneumonia
Mitigating Measures to Apply:
Monitor local authorities for updates
Avoid contact with animals (alive or dead)
Avoid animal markets
Avoid products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat)
Wash hands frequently with soap and water; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water isn’t available
Avoid exposure to those presenting the above symptoms
Allow extra time for screening at airports
Enroll in a Safe Traveler Program to receive warnings from your preferred embassy
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS® gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS® (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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