Recently, an outbreak of the Wuhan coronavirus in China has caused global concern. It came from a seafood and meat market in Wuhan, China, in December. It has since spread to other countries, including the United States. The market sold live and recently killed animals, which is where the virus originated.

Six cities in China have been quarantined because of the coronavirus. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the risk to the American public is low at this time.

A coronavirus is a virus that is found in animals. Sometimes these viruses can be transmitted from animals to humans, although it is rare. Officials do not know what animal caused the Wuhan coronavirus, although the market it is linked to also sold wild animals, like snakes and crocodiles.

In addition to the Wuhan coronavirus, other human coronaviruses have included:

· The MERS virus, or Middle East respiratory syndrome first identified in 2012.

· The SARS virus, or severe acute respiratory syndrome, which first occurred in the Guangdong province in southern China in 2003.

It is believed that both MERS and SARS are more serious than the Wuhan coronavirus.

Unlike MERS and SARS, the Wuhan coronavirus is usually fairly mild. It can take longer for symptoms to develop. Symptoms may include:

· A mild cough.

· Shortness of breath.

· A runny nose.

· A sore throat.

· A headache.

· A fever.

So far, only 15 to 20% of cases have become severe. Those with weakened immune systems may develop more serious symptoms, like pneumonia or bronchitis. So far, only people 40 years old and older have developed the Wuhan coronavirus infection.

If you believe you may have a coronavirus and visited China since December 1, 2019, you should see your doctor immediately. Before just showing up to your doctor’s office, alert your doctor that you’re coming and why. This will allow the office to prepare and perhaps isolate patients to prevent the spread of infection. 

Symptoms of a coronavirus usually go away on their own. If symptoms feel worse than a common cold, see your doctor. He or she may prescribe pain or fever medication. As with a cold, drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.

Residents of the United States are far more likely to be infected with the influenza virus. 2 Idaho children have already died this year from influenza. All adults and children older than 6 months should get an annual flu vaccine. It is not too late for this flu season which remains active through April. Family Health Center strongly recommends urgently getting the flu shot if you have not already done so.