The Coronavirus, or Covid-19, has taken the lives of at least 11 people int the U.S. so far, and many more are infected. The actual amount being unknown because an infected person can be without symptoms for 2 weeks.Two Minnesotans are now in self-quarantine over the exposure to the Covid-19 virus. The pair were not tested, and the other passengers were not notified of the possible contagion and will only be told if symptoms are shown in the two exposed people.
Fears continue to grow over the virus which has killed over 3,000 people and has a fatality rate that was recently increased from 2.3% to 3.4%.
Even in smaller communities, such as Winona, with a population of 26,000, items such as face masks and hand sanitizers are becoming difficult to acquire.
The United States has not closed its borders to those who might be exposed, a move drastically different from Russia’s. Russia closed its border with China almost immediately when news spread of the virus and has had roughly 3 cases and no deaths.
Information is difficult to find in the Russian situation compared to other countries. This may be because they took a shields-up strategy and it works. They are relatively close to ground-zero and have very few cases. However left-wing activists have criticized any plans to close the border.
In a press briefing Vice President Mike Pence spoke about the coronavirus saying
“If you are a healthy American, the risk of contracting the coronavirus remains low. But it is still a good idea to engage in commonsense practices that are always recommended this time of year. So, as someone who has a mother who is 87 years of age, and who has married kids living around the country, a brief tutorial on prevention for yourself, for your family, and your loved ones:
It’s a good idea to stay home when you’re sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue; throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently. Wash your hands with either disinfectant or with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.”