Scientists and health authorities all over the world are working towards stopping the spread of the deadly virus that emerged in China, in December. Several people have been infected with the new coronavirus, which has caused respiratory illnesses. The death toll has now gone up to 500 and is continues to rise everyday. 30th January, WHO declared a “public health emergency of international concern.” Details about the virus like how it spreads is unknown. Experts are taking to consideration the worst and best case scenarios based on the previous epidemics and what scientists already know.
How many people can the virus infect?
The Chinese authorities have shut down centres of the epidemic and researchers shared information about the virus with WHO and researchers. The number of cases has risen and has gone past 9,000 over the last few days. This has led to a prediction that this deadly virus could infect at least 40,000 of the millions of people living in China. Scientists have said that the virus seems to have gotten out of hand. Furthermore, under the best case scenario, a few people have been infected as the effects of the control measures will kick in, but on the other hand, it could take a while.
Will the virus stay for a long time?
It is an endemic if the virus circulates continuously in a society. Chicken pox and influenza are endemic viruses that can be kept under controlled via vaccination and making sure people stay at home. The biggest question is whether coronavirus is here to stay. It could become endemic if it can’t be contained. It could simply mean that deaths can happen every year, as the virus will circulate, till a cure is found.
Conclusion
Researchers and china are worried as the coronavirus continues to spread rapidly, which in turn will cause several deaths, especially those suffering from diabetes and heart diseases.
As of now, the only cure is to keep washing your hands and stay away from someone sick.
