I’m wondering this morning just how soon the WHO will officially declare this to be a pandemic. IMO, it’s time!
With all of the cases that continue to be reported worldwide, to believe that infected individuals haven’t fallen through the cracks of the quarantines would be wishful thinking at best. I will be absolutely amazed if we don’t see localized outbreaks worldwide within the next few weeks (I’m guessing sooner rather than later).
Trying to chase down all individuals that an infected person has had contact with in the general public is difficult at best. All it takes is one infected person to attend a large sporting event or social gathering. Or to forget one detail of where they have been while infected.
I can’t help but think about the early precautions that were being taken as people were arriving on return flights from China. Their temperatures were being taken and anyone without a fever was considered safe. In hindsight, with what we know now, I think most of us on this thread would agree that it wasn’t nearly enough. This particular virus had found various ways to go undetected in the early stages, and for a greater period of time compared to its relatives. Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is, to contain something, you first have to know that it’s there.
Containment through quarantine methods still provides the best opportunity to slow the progression of the outbreak, but IMOO, total containment has failed. IMO, we’re in the midst of a pandemic that has yet to be officially recognized.
I’ve been one of the outspoken “alarmists” on this thread, but I’m really more of a realist. I will again suggest that everyone do at least a little to prepare. Panic, fear, and chaos will more than likely be worse than the virus itself. Take the precautions you can, but don’t be one of the panic stricken if a global breakout does occur. Take extra precautions if you have underlying health issues. But here is the reality for most of us based on what’s being reported thus far....
- This virus spreads very rapidly, but if we look at the number of confirmed cases in China, the percentage is extremely low compared to the 60 million people currently under quarantine. Even with under reported numbers, this means that either only a relatively small percentage has been infected, OR the majority of the cases have produced mild symptoms.
- If by chance you do get infected, it currently appears that you have a 95% - 98% chance of recovery. Those are VERY GOOD ODDS!
- Science these days is absolutely amazing - the odds are in humanities favor that a vaccine will be discovered or that new drugs will be created to help fight the disease.
- I’ve always believed that a viral pandemic could/would decimate the human population, but unless there are major mutations that make this virus more deadly - this is not the one that will have a huge impact on the world population.
- The world as a whole will go through an “adjustment period”, and though this virus (again - in my opinion) is much worse than the flu, we have to keep in mind that the flu IS a very deadly virus, but we have learned to live with it and do what we can to minimize it.
Getting through the adjustment period is going to be the difficult part. A little preparedness and continued education on the subject are key. A little bit of fear will keep us alert and will ensure that we stay focused on our precautions. Panic and chaos will only make any situation more dire.
Ok - stepping off of my soap box!
I’m hoping this post will help calm the nerves and lessen the anxiety of some folks that are following along.
Even in the worst of situations, it’s best to look at the entire picture and keep things in perspective. Cool heads will prevail!
