It’s really disturbing how much that website looks like a game of Pandemic.
I’ve got a cruise coming up in a few months, and I must admit I’m getting a bit nervous about it. Cruise ships are already bad enough about concentrating disease.
Earlier today, someone said a case had been confirmed nearby. Someone else showed up and reported a case that was even closer. I suggested looking at the headlines before panicking, so someone got out their phone, did a search and, sure enough, there were three or four more cases reported. At that point everyone started talking at the same time. When someone finally stopped for air, I convinced the group to check the source of those headlines and, better yet, to check the homepage of any reputable newspaper. A few tense minutes later, it was agreed that it was just a rumor. So, I’m posting here to confirm the existence of stupid rumors.
Our lab has a sample which may contain the virus. A lot of people are freaking out although if they follow normal specimen handling procedures there is no danger. I think most are just enjoying the drama. :rolleyes:
On the up side, my husband and I do not have to travel to Beijing in April. The conference itself may not take place.
175 of those cases from outside China
1 death from outside China (Phillipines)
I’m not going to panic just yet.
ETA: I believe the spike in cases reflects a new methodology for diagnosis. They are now accepting diagnosis using scans, rather than just RNA confirmation of the virus. This has led to the jump in confirmed cases - cases that would not have been confirmed before are being done so now.
This thing about the new methods is correct. Also, a large part of the people that are now counted as being infected/died from the virus, actually presented/died earlier, but are only included in the figures now.
I’m flying tomorrow. I plan to wear a surgical face mask. They aren’t great at keeping out viruses, but I find they are excellent at keeping my nasal passages hydrated on the dry airplane, and that’s been found to reduce the risk of contracting respiratory diseases in general. It will also remind me not to touch my face.
Data point: my friend who was evacuated from China finally completed their 2 weeks of self-quarantine, and is relieved to rejoin the world.
