The New Foe: Coronavirus
If you are planning a trip to China and have been listening to the news recently then you probably know about the new virus that is sweeping the country. I mean it’s hard not to, the coronavirus (also known as the 2019-nCov) has been a topic of discussion since the beginning of the year. So, today I want to share some information to help you learn more about the 2019-nCov, measures to help protect yourself, and how this might affect your travels during this time.
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What is Coronavirus…
The new coronavirus comes from a family of previously identified viruses, but this new strain was just recently identified in early January after an outbreak of cases in China. The virus causes respiratory issues including symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath (what healthcare providers refer to as, non-specific symptoms) and they can appear anywhere between 2 to 14 days after being exposed.
It’s not clear yet how this virus is spreading but it is believed a person-to-person spread is happening. This happens when an infected person coughs or sneezes (just like the flu). Thankfully, this means that there are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself.
Prevention is Key….
To protect yourself against the 2019-nCov (and all other common respiratory illnesses for that matter) follow these three simple steps:
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have access to a bathroom, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Clean commonly touched objects frequently, like your cellphone. We put our phones everywhere and are constantly touching them, so washing your hands and not cleaning your phone is a little counterproductive. I recommend using these mini wipes to clean your objects when traveling, I always carry some with me!
If traveling to China (despite the government’s warning not to), avoid contact with sick people and animals, animal markets, and products that come from animals (like uncooked meat). It is unclear yet if the virus spreads from animals or people, so it is better safe than sorry.
Traveling During the Outbreak?
If you are traveling to China, then this will directly affect you. But, you might be wondering how this affects you if you are going somewhere else. Well the outbreak has now spread to other countries, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and the United States, so best to be safe.
As a result, airports have now started conducting health screening resulting in potential delays. If you are traveling to any of the countries mentioned above or through any of the following airports, then you should prepare for potential delays:
San Francisco International Airport
Los Angeles International Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport
Chicago's O'Hare International Airport
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
If you are traveling through any of these airports or to Asia then be sure to plan ahead for possible delays and follow the tips listed above to enjoy a safe and healthy trip.
I hope you find this post helpful and until next time, safe travels and go on exploring!