What You Need To Know About The Coronavirus Outbreak

What do we know about the coronavirus outbreak? On Wednesday March 11 the World Health Organization announced the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) a global pandemic, sending a message to world leaders that this outbreak is spreading internationally. Forbes assistant health editor Leah Rosenbaum dives into everything you should know about the virus. How did this outbreak get started? COVID-19 is a respiratory disease with severe flu-like symptoms caused by a coronavirus that was first identified on December 31 in Wuhan, China. Recent research suggests that there are at least two strains of the virus, and that it likely originated in bats, but there is still a lot scientists don’t know. How many people have been infected or died from coronavirus? As of Friday, March 13, there are 142,100 confirmed cases. There have been at least 5,381 deaths, including 2,201 outside of China. In the U.S. there are at least 1,875 confirmed cases in 47 states and Washington, D.C. so far, according to the New York Times. At least 41 American patients have died from the virus. Actual U.S. numbers are likely much higher, though, due to delays in getting patients tested. On Thursday, the FDA approved a new test from Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche, with an aim of speeding the process.. How is coronavirus spread? Coronaviruses typically spreads in droplets through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. The virus can move from person-to-person, either by someone inhaling the droplets, or by touching them on surfaces then touching their face. This is why social distancing is vital to slowing the spread of the virus. Who is most at risk from infection? Elderly populations face a significant risk, with a mortality rate estimated at 15% for people over 80. Additionally, the CDC notes that people of any age with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and lung disease face higher risks. For reasons scientists are only just beginning to understand, children face lower risks of severe illness, which is a marked contrast from a typical seasonal flu. What happens if you’re infected? According to the WHO, common symptoms include fever, fatigue and a dry cough. Aches and pains are also common. About 80% of those infected can recover without any special treatment. However, about 17% of patients will become seriously ill and have trouble breathing. In a small percentage of cases, people have virtually no symptoms at all.