Updated March 5
Kevin High, president of the Wake Forest Baptist Health system, issued a video statement about steps the medical team is taking to ensure it is prepared to respond to novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
High also provided information about the virus and tips to help residents stay healthy.
“Let me reassure you that most cases of this virus are mild and patients recover,” High said. “We know that older adults and those that are immuno-compromised are more vulnerable and should watch for respiratory symptoms, and follow the same protocol as for flu. Everyone should stay up-to-date regarding state and local virus activity.”
High listed five simple precautions to help protect against coronavirus:
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wash hands more often.
- Touch your face less.
- Cough or sneeze into the elbow, not hands.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like phones or doorknobs on a regular basis.
Visit Wakehealth.edu/Coronavirus for more information.
The number of confirmed deaths in the United States related to coronavirus has risen to 11, according to the latest news reports. The virus was first detected in China.
“Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
On March 4, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 93,090 confirmed cases of coronavirus around the world, which has resulted in more than 3,000 deaths (3.4% global death rate).
U.S. President Donald Trump disputed WHO reports during a broadcasted call to the The Sean Hannity Show on March 4, saying he had a “hunch” the global death rate was much lower, “a fraction of one percent.”
