The outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in recent times has yet again brought instant fear to millions of minds. It was first reported in Wuhan, China, on 31 December 2019. However, the epidemic fetched worldwide attention in February 2020 and it has since then raised alarming concerns since there seem to be no confirmed cure as at the time this article was written.

There are theories which insinuates that CoV- a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases- is manmade, and purposely discharged for conflict reasons, either to reduce population size or a struggle for power between powerful leaders. Wuhan-400 is one of such alleged theories. Whatever the true case of it’s origin might be, coronavirus is out there and it is indeed a threat to humanity and must be contained as soon as possible, with immediate effect following more restrictions and a possible medicine to restore health.

As obtained from reliable sources, at least 150 million people in China are living under government restrictions. Also, the death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in mainland China reached at least 1,868 with 72,436 infections. And it is reported that the total number of deaths and affected people are higher than the estimated figures.

CoV which is said to be transmitted between animals and people has so far crippled productivity and mutual relationships across bordering nations. Hence, the rate in which goods are been transported has collapsed as some countries have closed their boarders. Also there has been a decline in movement between people and countries are taking further restrictions to contain or prevent the virus. Ukraine is preparing to send a plane to evacuate some of its citizens. Russia to suspend entry for Chinese citizens to its territory. There have seen 92 cases of human-to-human spread of the coronavirus in 12 countries outside China. Egypt reports the first case in Africa. The #COVID19 outbreak is now considered by the WHO as a humanitarian crisis. A Global emergency.

Aside from the death toll, another worsening impact of the epidemic falls largely on manufacturing, financial, banking, commodities and other sectors. The coronavirus outbreak coupled with other factors has brought China and its affiliate’s economy to a standstill. Due to China’s global demand, the epidemic disruption has slowed production around the world. Hence created productions difficulties for many foreign companies that have established a manufacturing base in China, and for other oversees establishments that rely on Chinese companies for production.

The economic pain from the epidemic continues to spread, that is why we should take preventive measures. Common signs of the infection includes fever, respiratory symptoms, breathing difficulties, cough and shortness of breath. In more extreme cases, infection can cause pneumonia, acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. Below are standard recommendations to prevent being affected or becoming an agent of destruction.

1, Regularly, wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer, as it will eliminate the virus if it is on your hands.

2, Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with flexed elbow or tissue, as it will prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

3, To avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, handle raw meat, milk or animal organs with care, and thoroughly cook meat and eggs

4, Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness or maintain at least 3 feet (1 meter) distance between yourself and affected people, so as not to breathe in the virus as they project small droplets containing the virus.

Speak to a health care specialist if you have traveled in an area in China where coronavirus has been reported, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has traveled from China and has respiratory signs.

Please be safe out there. X pj