13/03/2020
Coronavirus Update (Live): 134,930 Cases and 4,990 Deaths from COVID-19 Virus Outbreak - Worldometer
Many are asking why there are such extreme measures put in place dealing with Coronavirus Covid-19. Contrary to the rhetoric and misinformation, there are three primary reasons justifying extreme precautions.
A) Coronavirus is new, which means we don't know enough about it yet to fully understand the harm it can cause, or how fast it can spread, and;
B) A vaccine is 12 - 18 months away from being developed, and there is no known cure yet.
C) At present, the mortality rate is higher than other viruses, such as influenza. The higher mortality rate is based on known cases, and since testing is way behind, the mortality rate could be higher or lower. Again, we just don't have enough data yet.
We need to take this new virus seriously, and accept that our lives are going to be disrupted for some time to come. China's aggressive response has seen a leveling off of new cases and deaths, while Italy, the US, and other countries show sharp rises. Most experts agree it will get worse before it gets better, but it can be mitigated if managed properly.
Be vigilant, and listen to the advice of health experts, i.e. stay away from large gatherings, avoid physical contact, especially with people displaying symptoms and who have been traveling, avoid travel, and wash hands regularly. The three main symptoms are a dry cough, gradual fever, and difficulty breathing. A runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, and sore throat are most likely symptoms of the flu or common cold and not the Coronavirus (although 5% of cases have reported sore throats).
The after-effects of Coronavirus will include a significant impact on the global economy. Indeed, it is already having a severe negative impact on financial markets (DOW down 25%), tourism, and other industries as workers stay home and major events are canceled, and there will be a ripple effect for years to come. Plan your finances accordingly.
Here is a site that is monitoring the Coronavirus stats. No site is ever 100% accurate, but this one provides a good snapshot where we stand globally and country by country.
Coronavirus Update (Live): 134,930 Cases and 4,990 Deaths from COVID-19 Virus Outbreak - Worldometer
Live statistics and coronavirus news tracking the number of confirmed cases, recovered patients, and death toll by country due to the COVID 19 coronavirus from Wuhan, China. Coronavirus counter with new cases, historical data, and info. Daily charts, graphs, news and updates