acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death. The illness appears to be more severe in those who have underlying medical conditions, a weakened immune system, the elderly and the very young.”
How is it treated?
“As with many viruses, there is no specific treatment, but many of the symptoms can be treated, and supportive care for infected persons can be highly effective,” Chew said. “Since this is a new virus, there is no vaccine, and it can take a number of years for a new vaccine to be developed.”
How can people protect themselves, especially if they are flying and will be in contact with people from all over the world?
“Travelers should follow standard recommendations to reduce exposure to and spread of a range of infections,” Chew advised. “This includes washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve — not your hands — when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact, if possible, with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as coughing and sneezing.”
On Monday, the CDC urged all Americans to avoid any nonessential travel to all of China, not just Wuhan.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on the new coronavirus.