Worldwide Coronavirus has yet to reach North Idaho

The Coronavirus has not set foot in North Idaho as of yet, but isolated cases in the United States have prompted increased precautions to prevent a nationwide outbreak. 

Currently, there are six confirmed cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in the U.S., with only one case having originated here.  The subjects are in the states of Washington, California, Illinois, and Arizona. 

Proper viral prevention techniques will impede the spread of the 2019-nCoV to our region.  The Centers for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) recommends a few methods of prevention for the virus including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The CDC also strongly suggests that all travel to China be postponed until more is known about the nature and prevention of the virus.