Chinese health authorities urged people in the city of Wuhan to avoid crowds and public gatherings, after warning that a new viral illness that has infected more than 400 people and killed at least 17 could spread further.
The appeal came as the World Health Organization convened a group of independent experts to advise whether the outbreak should be declared a global emergency.
This situation and the variety of questions I have been asked over the last few days have prompted me to share information that could help you avoid or greatly reduce your exposure.
“There has already been human-to-human transmission and infection of medical workers,” Li Bin, deputy director of the National Health Commission, said at a news conference with health experts. “Evidence has shown that the disease has been transmitted through the respiratory tract and there is the possibility of viral mutation.”
As we take a step back and look closely at what we are dealing with here it is important to keep things in perspective. As the population density rises it is typical to get a correspondingly higher rate of incidence. As with any situation which poses a threat to ourselves or those around us it is very important to remain calm while seeking information which is relevant which can be used to safeguard yourself and those in your care.
According to the latest information I have seen regarding this outbreak it is linked to Coronavirus. This is a common virus which can cause an infection in your nose, sinuses, or upper throat. Most coronaviruses are not dangerous. Many pathogens have the capability to mutate. Mutation is a way of survival and in doing so can create a more dangerous strain.
About 858 people have died from Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), which first appeared in 2012 in Saudi Arabia and then in other countries in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. In April 2014, the first American was hospitalized for MERS in Indiana and another case was reported in Florida. Both had just returned from Saudi Arabia. In May 2015, there was an outbreak of MERS in Korea, which was the largest outbreak outside of the Arabian Peninsula. In 2003, 774 people died from a severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak. As of 2015, there were no further reports of cases of SARS.
MERS and SARS are types of coronaviruses.
But in early January 2020, the World Health Organization identified a new type: 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in China. By late January, there were 300 confirmed cases in China and a death count that was still in the single digits, but rising. And despite airport screenings, a traveler had brought the first case to the U.S.
These types of viruses are most commonly transmitted by contact with an infected host or vector such as a doorknob or other item the infected host has contacted. However, as alarming is this may all be while traveling using the same basic precautions as one may use for the common cold should be applied.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. I actually recommend essential oils such as clove which is a potent antibacterial and antiviral.
- Keep your hands and fingers away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are infected.
You treat a coronavirus infection the same way you treat a cold:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink fluids. Primarily water.
- For sore throats there are many natural options. Fresh Pineapple works well, as well as salt water, peppermint, or Chamomile tea. More on this can be found on my blog. https://drshapero.wordpress.com/2018/02/23/sore-throat-natural-and-effective-remedies/ If you are considering an over-the-counter medicine for a sore throat and fever I caution don’t give aspirin to children or teens younger than 19; use ibuprofen or acetaminophen instead.
- Boost your immune system with Echinacea, Goldenseal, Zinc and there are many others.
A humidifier or steamy shower can also help ease a sore and scratchy throat.
Even when a coronavirus causes MERS or SARS in other countries, the kind of coronavirus infection common in the U.S. isn’t a serious threat for an otherwise healthy adult. If you get sick, treat your symptoms and contact a doctor if they get worse or don’t go away.
The majority of those that get sick are compromised is some way. Those that are dealing with other illnesses, higher than typical levels of stress, lack of sleep, over use of alcohol etc. are more susceptible. Keeping the a good foundation will go far in you staying healthy. Maintain good rest, stress management, eat a healthy diet, and use good hygiene practices.
If you suspect you have been exposed and are concerned or experience symptoms a laboratory test would be helpful.
For more information on keeping your immune system strong and greatly reducing your risk feel free to contact my office.
Just like so many other symptoms and immune challenges it is the result of some underlying irritation on the system. The underlying cause is what we look for and once that is relieved your body will feel much better.
Yours for Better Health, Dr. Shapero
EXPECT MIRACLES – WE DO
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