As coronavirus spreads, many questions and some answers

The rapid spread of the coronavirus now called COVID-19 has sparked alarm worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency, and many countries are grappling with a rise in confirmed cases. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising people to be prepared for disruptions to daily life that will be necessary if the coronavirus spreads within communities. Below, we’re responding to a number of questions about COVID-19 raised by Harvard Health Blog readers. We hope to add further questions and update answers as reliable information becomes available. Does the coronavirus spread person-to-person? What is the incubation period for the coronavirus? What are the symptoms of the new coronavirus? Can people who are asymptomatic spread coronavirus? Can the coronavirus live on fabric, carpet, and other soft surfaces? What about hard surfaces? Should I wear a face mask to protect against coronavirus? Should my children? Should someone who is immunocompromised wear a face mask? Should I accept packages from China? Can I catch the coronavirus by eating food prepared by others? Should I travel on a plane with my children? Is there a vaccine available for coronavirus? Is there a treatment available for the new coronavirus? How is this new coronavirus confirmed? How deadly is this coronavirus? What should people do if they think they have coronavirus or their child does? Go to an urgent care clinic? Go to the ER? Can people...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Children's Health Cold and Flu Infectious diseases Men's Health Women's Health Source Type: blogs