The Center for Disease Control reports on an outbreak of the Coronavirus, a virus that causes respiratory infection. This outbreak originated in China and has now spread to several other global locations, including the US. The Coronavirus is spread via droplet transmission, like most other respiratory infections, including the flu. Droplet transmission is a form of direct contact that occurs through things like coughing and sneezing. This makes the virus very easily spread, especially if people are in crowded areas. So remember, cover your mouth and wash your hands!
The Coronavirus causes coughing, sneezing, fever, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can range from mild to very severe. In some cases, this virus has proved fatal . The incubation period can be as long as 14 days. This is concerning because infected individuals have the ability to unknowingly spread the virus for up to two weeks before even developing symptoms. The CDC warns that there is currently no antiviral medication and the only treatments available are of supportive nature to manage symptoms. The best thing to do is practice preventative measures like diligent hand hygiene.
The American Society for Microbiology gives us a closer look at the structure of this pathogen. Coronavirus is an enveloped virus with a helical capsid structure and a pleomorphic virion shape. That just sounds like a bunch of scientific nonsense. But this is why it matters: enveloped viruses are susceptible to the effects of disinfectants. Disinfectants, like hand sanitizer, target the envelop of viruses. If a virus’s envelope is destroyed, then it is no longer virulent and cannot infect yourself or others. The best way to stop the spread of this virus is to limit droplet transmission by using face masks, wash your hands frequently, and use disinfectants on commonly used surfaces…oh yeah, and avoid traveling to China!
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