The Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, has sparked national fear as it continues to spread throughout the world.
The virus is a dangerous respiratory illness that can easily spread from person to person. The virus originated in Wuhan, China in October 2019 and since then, has made it’s way to other parts of the world. Over 127,000 people worldwide have been infected and more than 4,700 has died.
The first case of COVID-19 in the U.S. was reported on January 21, 2020. As of March 12, reported by the CDC, there are a total of 1,215 cases in America with 36 deaths. 125 cases were travel-related, 102 cases were due to close contact, while the other 988 cases are being investigated.
Washington has the highest number of cases with 373 infected, next is New York with 216 cases (13 in Westchester County, 16 in New York City, 9 in Nassau County and 5 in Suffolk County). Governor Cuomo declared NY in a state of emergency. During an emergency briefing, Cuomo said New York State will contract 28 private labs to increase the testing capacity. Other states with a high number of cases include, California which has 179 cases, Rhode Island has 95, and Colorado has 34 cases, according to news sources.
Celebrities such as Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson announced they tested positive for the Coronavirus. The NBA suspended the 2020 season and two Utah Jazz players, Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell also tested positive.
Street Soldiers reporter Lisa Evers reported that New York City schools, S. Bronx Prep and Laboratory School Of Finance & Technology shut down today (March 12), after a student tested positive for the virus. The schools will be closed for 24 hours for cleaning.
In the wake of the pandemic, certain airports and airlines are imposing a “no handshake” rule. It’s being reported that the COVID-19 is 5 times more contagious than the flu and handshakes transfer 10 times more bacteria than a fist pump.
Effective immediately, all NYC broadway productions are closed until further notice. Popular music festivals like SXSW and Coachella have been canceled or pushed back. Donald Trump also implemented a 30-day travel ban to Europe.
Take a look at this video on how to stay Coronavirus cautions: