Containing the coronavirus – Can it be done?

As of January 21, America had its first confirmed case of coronavirus. The virus that presents with flu like symptoms and is slowly making its way around Asia has finally found a host on American soil.

The news of this has health officials scurrying and the world on edge with concerns of another SARS-like epidemic on the way.

"As it stands, nearly 440 cases of the new coronavirus have been reported in China, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the United States, with the overwhelming majority in China. All cases reported internationally were exported from Wuhan.

Nine deaths have been reported in Wuhan.

What should I know about the cornonavirus case in the U.S.?

The first case of coronavirus reported in the U.S. is in a patient in his 30s from Washington state, the CDC said Tuesday. Laboratory testing at the CDC in Atlanta confirmed the patient was infected with it. He's currently hospitalized, in good condition, health officials in Washington said.

Although the patient had traveled to Wuhan, he said did not visit the market at the center of the outbreak." January 21 - ABC News

As this story develops, there remains a lot of questions to be asked getting the right information and facts will be essential given this is a matter of public health and concern.

• How is the virus transmitted?

• Can we expect more cases to appear on U.S. soil?

• Is there a vaccine and are there any preventable actions people can take?

• And, can health authorities stop the spread of Coronavirus before it becomes an epidemic?

If you are a journalist covering this topic – that’s where our experts can help.



Dr. Jose Vazquez is an expert in the realm of infectious diseases. He studies and treats infectious diseases, including antibiotic-resistant superbugs and fungal infections. A leader in his field and a go-to expert for media regarding this topic, Dr. Vasquez is available to speak with media regarding Immunization Awareness Month. Click on his icon to arrange an interview.