The term coronavirus has become a scary topic in recent weeks.  Coronaviruses are not a new disease. Human coronaviruses were first identified in the 1960s.  Until recently the scientific community was aware of 6 different types. Out of these six viruses, four of them commonly affect humans which causes symptoms similar to a cold and respiratory illness.  These four coronaviruses affect humans and are spread from human to human. Some coronaviruses that typically only affect animals can transform into a virus that can spread to humans. Two of the six known coronaviruses fall into that category which passes from animal to human.  These two viruses (SARS and MERS) have made headlines in the past decade. The most recent coronavirus which has originated in China and spread throughout the world is known as COVID-19. This virus is known as a novel coronavirus which means it has not been previously identified.  It is currently thought to have passed from animal to human in a seafood and live animal market in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Even though the virus is not widespread currently in the US it is still very important to take protective measures against COVID-19.

Awareness

Being proactive is very important when preventing the spread of any illness or disease.  Monitor national health news and websites pertaining to the COVID-19 virus. Also, monitor your local public health authority for the latest information regarding the spread and occurrences in your area.  The more information you have the better prepared against coronavirus you can be.

Also, a good practice is to seek medical attention at the first signs of illness.  The faster the illness is addressed typically the less severe the disease course will be.  

Avoidance

Avoiding viruses and germs is optimal but not the most practical way to stay healthy.  Try to avoid close contact with individuals that are sick. Sustain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth while in public.  Also, be courteous to others and stay home or away from others while you are sick. If you are sick and cannot avoid others then always cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.     

Handwashing

Handwashing is the simplest but most effective way to avoid any illness including the COVID-19 virus. Viruses and germs can live on surfaces that have been contaminating by individuals who are sick.  People tend to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth without knowing it. Germs and viruses can enter the body through these areas and cause sickness. Handwashing protects individuals who are not sick by riding the hands of germs picked up from surfaces.  Hands should be washed for at least 20 seconds or a full course of the Happy Birthday song.

Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are great for killing germs on the hands but should not replace washing with soap and water.  Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer with you when going out when hand washing is not available. Use alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Face Masks

Contrary to popular belief, wearing a face mask does not decrease your risk of contracting an illness or virus.  Individuals tend to take the masks on and off, wear them improperly, and not changed often enough. On the contrary, if you are sick and have to be in public then you should wear a mask.  Wearing a mask is more beneficial at preventing the spread of germs from an infected person then preventing the healthy person from contracting the illness.