The major transmission mode of the Wuhan coronavirus is through “close range droplet transmission,” Feng Luzhao, researcher from the Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Center, said at Monday’s press conference by the National Health Commission.
His comments suggest that most people have contracted the virus by being in close contact with an infected person.
Droplet transmission is when a virus is passed on due to an infected person sneezing or coughing, and another comes into contact with those infected particles.
Feng said that, “people should avoid going out, especially going to crowded areas.”
According to a how-to guide published by Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Center, the public is advised to reduce visiting families during Lunar New Year, stay home and rest, and avoid going to crowded public areas, especially those with less air flow such as theaters, internet cafes, KTV (karaoke), and shopping centers.
With more cases of the Wuhan coronavirus confirmed outside mainland China, here’s how can you minimize your risk of getting infected.
Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness, such as coughing and sneezing, the World Health Organization says. Other symptoms of this coronavirus include fever and shortness of breath. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, kidney failure and even death.
Cook food thoroughly: Scientists believe this coronavirus started in another animal and then spread to humans. So health officials recommend cooking meat and eggs thoroughly.
Avoid live animal markets: Anyone with underlying medical conditions should avoid live animal markets and raw meats altogether, since those people are “considered at higher risk of severe disease,” the World Health Organization says.
Wash hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Cover mouth and nose: If you’re the one feeling sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and disinfect the objects and surfaces you touch.
Wear a mask: If you or your doctor suspect you might have the Wuhan coronavirus, the CDC advises wearing a surgical mask.
Common sense: In general, the public should do “what you do every cold and flu season,” said Dr. John Wiesman, the health secretary in Washington state – where the first US case of Wuhan coronavirus was confirmed.
