What Does the Latest Coronavirus News Mean for You?

This past Saturday, February 29th, the first US resident died from COVID-19. As of Sunday night, the second death from COVID-19 was confirmed in Washington State.

As of Thursday, February 27, there had been 53 confirmed conses in the US and 2,462 deaths worldwide. By Saturday, there were 69 confirmed and presumptive positive cases of coronavirus in the US. The death on Saturday in Washington state marked the first death on U.S. soil.  Reports indicate the man who passed away from COVID-19 was in his 50s and had an additional health condition.  At this time, there are no reports that he contracted the virus through travel.  If the above is accurate this would be the first case of “community spread.” Community spread refers to the spread of an illness where the initial source of spread is unknown. The White House has issued more restrictions on travel since this news broke.  Currently, travel restrictions have been implemented for China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. Both Brazil and Ireland recently confirmed cases of coronavirus within their borders.  A full breakdown of the level of restrictions can be found through the CDC’s most recent updates. An implication of COVID-19 is that symptoms are similar to flu symptoms. Signs and symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.  The main spread of COVD-19 believed to be through respiratory transmission. It’s unknown at this time how easily the virus can be transmitted from person to person.  It’s also not too late to get your flu vaccine as an extra precaution in protecting yourself from the freely circulating influenza virus.

Dr. Maya Heinert, RxSaver Medical Expert shares how people can stay vigilant as concerns arise in the wake of recent news, “The most important thing that people can do at this point is not to panic but to be smart about how to protect themselves and how to prepare for a disruption in supplies and normal daily living.”

While it’s not necessary to buy extreme quantities of supplies, it is important to stock up on items for those who have specific needs, “If you have infants, pets or people with special diets, this is the time to make sure you have enough on hand,” Heinert recommends. It’s also a good time to make sure that you have adequate medication on hand and speak with your doctor’s office about whether you should get an extra month’s supply.  Keep RxSaver™ in mind should you need to fill a prescription before your insurance benefit is available. Stay up to date on the latest information regarding coronavirus and educate your household about staying healthy as they go about their daily lives. RxSaver will be updating news on COVD-19  as more information is received.