Hello!
A lot has happened since my last blog post. This virus has turned into a pandemic and has caused thousands of deaths around the world. There are a few key things to keep in mind when discussing these issues. First, panic will not help our current situation. I think it is very important to inform individuals of this because a lot of false media can be spread in light of the situation. Currently, my family is avoiding large crowds to the best of our ability. I am not allowed to go anywhere where many people may be due to the virus, which can be maddening but is for the best. As many of you already know, UNC has extended spring break for another week and will mainly go online after that week until further notice. This is a major deal that sobers us to the severity of the situation. I thankfully do not personally know anyone who has contracted the virus.
According to the NCDHHS, there are currently 23 cases in North Carolina. There have been no deaths in NC. Nationally, there are 1,694 cases and 41 US deaths have occurred. Most of the cases are in eastern NC. I live in Taylorsville which is in the western more rural part of the state so thankfully this region is less at risk for spreading the virus. As of today, governor Roy Cooper announced that all public K-12 schools will be closed for the next two weeks. This is an interesting decision. I understand that crowded environments like schools are hot spots for the spread of this virus; however, the individuals who will mainly have to watch these children while schools are closed are grandparents/ older individuals. I believe this decision was made with the idea that most children have not contracted the virus; however, that is something to think about. Also, if small children are at home many parents will have to stay home to watch them which will impact their jobs. All of this is to say that the severity of this issue has grown drastically in a very short period of time. It is important for everyone to understand that and take the precautions needed to stop the spread.
According to the CDC, the same precautions are being stated. Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds. Avoid large crowds. Stay home if you are sick. These precautions are repetitive but are necessary to slow the spread. There is currently no vaccine and probably won’t be one for a while. In order to keep the immunocompromised and elderly safe, a group effort has to be made.
Microbiology with Alicia 