Skip to main content

Update on the Novel Coronavirus: What can you do?

Child - corona virus prevention

The novel coronavirus is zoonotic (transmission is originally from animal to human), and can easily spread via human to human transmission or through community. There is no absolute way to stop this outbreak from spreading but it can be slowed down. As individuals, we can take precautionary and preventive measures to protect ourselves and our families. Common symptoms of the virus are fever, cough and shortness of breath.

The current risk of infection in the United States (as of publication) is low. Travelers from certain countries arriving in the U.S. must go through preventive protocols and may have to be quarantined for up to 14 days for close medical observation. 

From the CDC -

There is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

Food for thought  Daily ubiquitous items that may require immediate and constant attention for disinfection (wipe down and/or spray):

Can you think of other items in your household or daily commute that require disinfection? 

Stay tuned.

 

Author
Marigold Castillo, M.D. Dr. Marigold "Dr. Gold" Castillo is a board-certified physician specialist practicing in Bayside, New York. She is an assistant professor of Pediatrics at Zucker School of Medicine of Hofstra/ Northwell. She focuses on personalized care in general pediatrics and adolescent medicine.

You Might Also Enjoy...

In ten years, my child will be...

The new year is a time of reflection and vision. Looking forward, the vision must be clear on what you, as a parent or guardian would like accomplished for your child - physically, emotionally and socially.