It is all over the media and as parents, we have a right to be concerned. In this article, we'll cover the basics of coronavirus, what you need to know, and how you should handle preventative measures. We cover the facts so you can sort through the noise and take the best possible precautions. Remember first and foremost, do not panic, just be prepared!
Let’s start with some basics.
What is coronavirus?
The term Corona, in this case, merely refers to and describes a specific family (corona family) of spherical(round) viruses. Several viruses in this family such as that responsible for the SARS outbreak in the 2000’s are also in that same family of coronavirus. In fact, the syndrome caused by SARS is quite similar to what we are seeing now with the current coronavirus which we are calling the novel (new) Coronavirus or “COVID-19”. Unfortunately, while we are not entirely unfamiliar with coronaviruses as a whole, COVID-19 has in just a few short months spread in both numbers of people infected and geographic reach to an extent that has not been seen for this type of virus, and has accurately been declared a “global pandemic” as a result.
How is coronavirus spread?
It is spread through respiratory droplets, meaning when a person sneezes or coughs, the droplets that leave their mouth or nose contain the virus that can affect a person in close contact. You can also contract the virus by touching a surface where someone with the virus left respiratory droplets. Symptoms develop between 1-14 days after being in contact with someone else who has the virus. The