By HAILEY CHAPMAN
As of Saturday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the first case of the novel coronavirus in the state of Kansas.
A 50-year-old woman from Johnson County has self-quarantined after traveling to the northeastern part of the United States where it is expected she came into contact with the virus. All persons in contact with the woman have been notified and are being monitored for 14 days. No closures have taken place in Johnson County, as the first case was handled with care to avoid spread.
Updated daily, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment currently has conducted 12 tests within the state of Kansas, with only one testing positive. While the virus hasn’t been widespread in Kansas thus far, other states have experienced much higher rates of infection and death.
Across the nation
From its birth in Wuhan, China, coronavirus has made its way to 31 countries, including the United States. Globally, more than 111,000 cases have been confirmed, with the death toll reaching nearly 4,000.
Washington has experienced one of the highest rates with 128 cases in the Seattle area. Alongside Washington, California also has declared a state of emergency after 22 residents aboard the Grand Princess Cruise Ship tested positive for the virus. Those individuals have been quarantined awaiting release to a safe health care facility.
Sixteen Nebraska residents also were identified as passengers on the cruise. New York has suffered an outbreak of 105 cases. Among states undergoing tests, Oregon has conducted 167 tests with only 14 cases testing positive, while 53 are pending, with 100 negative. In Florida, 140 tests have been negative, with 18 cases confirmed. The state has had two deaths related to the virus.
School districts in Massachusetts have closed while 719 individuals have self-quarantined as a result of 28 positive cases.
In light of 24 cases confirmed in Texas and the first locally transmitted case, the South by Southwest Film and Music Festival has been canceled for the first time since 1987 in an effort to prevent further spread.
The CDC stated by the end of the week, millions of tests will be readily available to be administered to Americans by health care professionals. Dr. Stephen M. Hahn stated that with current estimates, 2.1 million test kits will translate to 850,000 Americans being successfully tested for the virus.
Symptoms of COVID-19 and diagnosis
Symptoms of the coronavirus include a fever alongside lower respiratory illness such as coughing, shortness of breath and pain with breathing. In most cases, symptoms begin within two to 14 days after exposure.
The virus most commonly spreads through person-to-person contact, such as touching and shaking hands. It also can be spread through the air; when a person with the illness coughs or sneezes, anyone within the area is susceptible to the virus. In rare cases, contact with feces has shown contraction of the virus.
The diagnosis for COVID-19 includes lab tests for respiratory and blood specimens. Testing can only be conducted through health professionals, and results are usually available within 24 hours.
Preventative measures
There is no vaccine to prevent coronavirus; however, most cases result in recovery with large fluid intake, rest and the implementation of vigorous pain and fever medication.
To protect yourself, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment suggests the following:
- Avoid close contact with people who show any signs of illness.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; when soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Furthermore, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others:
- Stay home when you are sick with an illness of any kind.
- Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue and throw it away.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
The KDHE has advised that receiving packages from China are safe, as the virus is known to die in a few hours. Therefore, the time it takes to reach the United States proves no risk.
Alongside this, though the virus may be instantly transmitted through touch. It cannot be further transmitted until the individual begins showing symptoms. While a person might have the virus, it is likely that if they are not yet aware, they pose no risk of spreading it until they begin feeling ill.
Finally, with Spring Break quickly approaching, officials are warning it is important to understand the symptoms as well as be aware of areas where the virus is more prevalent. Take precautionary measures when traveling and practice good hygiene when exposed to large crowds.
College students are urged to be careful when sharing beverages or any items that touch the eyes, nose or mouth. Wash your hands often, especially when in public areas.
The CDC and Kansas Department of Health and Environment contributed to this report.