By Sue Danielson

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally, including in the U.S. and Canada. There are ongoing investigations to learn more. There are indications that this virus is now spreading person-to-person. Of most concern at this time are travelers who may have been in the epicenter of the outbreak or in contact with an infected individual.

Six cases have been identified in the U.S. and 241 people are being evaluated at this time. In the U.S., flu is currently a far bigger threat than coronavirus. As we are already in the peak season for influenza, it is a good time to remind students and employees regarding prevention of illnesses. Flu and Coronavirus symptoms are very similar and may include:

• fever or feeling feverish/chills – not all flu cases get a fever
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• muscle or body aches
• headaches
• fatigue (tiredness)
• severe symptoms may lead to pneumonia and death

You may be able to spread a virus to someone else before you even know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. The time from when a person is exposed and infected with flu to when symptoms begin is about two days, but can range from about one–four days. People with flu are most contagious in the first three–four days after their illness begins. Some otherwise healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five–seven days after becoming sick.

The first and most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death. Viterbo health services continues to have flu vaccine available with a cost of $7 for students and $17 for employees. It is also recommended that you use everyday preventive actions:

• stay away from people who are sick
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• cover coughs and sneezes 
• frequent handwashing to help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory (nose, throat, and lungs) illnesses  
• stay home until you are fever-free for 24 hours
• drink plenty of fluids and rest  

If you are concerned regarding a student, send him or her to the health services office. If you would like further information, contact health services at 796-3806 or scdanielson@viterbo.edu.