Will A Mask Protect You?
What exactly is coronavirus, and what’s the best way to protect yourself? We checked in with Dr. Amesh Adalja to ask if surgical masks really keep you healthy, and what you should do instead. More from Cheddar.
ARVE Error: need id and providerWe return with an update from Chris Martenson of Peak Prosperity. Among his observations: A. The Chinese have been downplaying the scale of the virus. He says the numbers of infected individuals is likely much higher and also the mortality rates. B. Who should be the most concerned? Senior citizens. A review of the reported mortality rates shows the largest numbers of deaths involve individuals aged 60 and older. Many in their 70s, 80s and 90s are unable to survive. C. One positive bit of news? It does not appear as if the virus is mutating at all or at least not quickly. If that is the case, it might be a little easier to contain. But it will still require some time to control, so it could be quite deadly beforehand.
ARVE Error: need id and providerNews reports coming out of Taiwan are giving us a much sharper picture of the coronavirus. It’s not a pretty picture, either. The virus has a much higher mortality rate than common flu. The symptoms are more pronounced and severe, leading to degradation of the lungs and heart. Seniors are particularly vulnerable. Perhaps the US media will catch up in time, but for now, look to Taiwan, Hong Kong or Japan if you want honest and more accurate reporting on this epidemic, which appears poised to become a pandemic before long. More from Lisa Haven.
Styxhexenhammer666 is giving daily coronavirus updates at this point. He is one of the more knowledgeable commentators on infectious diseases, so if you’re eager to learn more, he’s someone to follow. Highlights of this new report: The virus is spreading before symptoms appear. In other words, patients who don’t know they are infected are traveling around and rapidly spreading the virus. There are now 2,800 reported cases, a number that doctors agree is much lower than the actual number. It’s now been confirmed in several US states: Arizona, California, Illinois and Washington. Suspected cases are being monitored in other states, including Colorado, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
How can you best prepare for the coronavirus? While the Chinese government says it’s handling a few thousand cases, unconfirmed reports suggest the actual number could be in a higher range, between 40,000 and 50,000. There are even some wild speculations that it’s approaching 100,000.
Dustin Nemos says try to build up your immune system. Get yourself masks. He has attached a guide to his video offering concrete suggestions on steps you can take to improve your safety, ranging from staying home to washing your hands often. Also if you venture outside, have a pan filled with bleach by your doorstep to clean off your shoes and kill viruses.
Remember when The Simpsons tackled the zika virus? Awfully familiar now.
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