Medical Offices of Manhattan’s Internist, Dr. Jyoti Kini, speaks to Bustle about flying during the coronavirus outbreak.
Are masks effective at preventing the spread of epidemics like the coronavirus? In what circumstances would it make sense to use one, and how can you be sure you’re wearing one correctly?
Coronavirus is a droplet infection. It is important that the person who’s sick with a cough, runny nose and fever wears a mask (e.g., wear a facemask upon entry to contain cough, follow triage procedures).
Health care personnel should also wear appropriate PPE ( personal protective equipment mask gloves etc to minimize contamination.
The side of the mask that has a stiff bendable edge is the top and is meant to mold to the shape of your nose. The colored side of the mask is usually the front and should face away from you, while the white side touches your face.
Are there other preventative measures can people take to stay safe from the coronavirus when they’re traveling?
CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to the People’s Republic of China (this does not include the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau, or the island of Taiwan)
Dr. Jyoti Kini is quoted saying:
“For travelers coming in from China first, watch for any changes in your health for 14 days after leaving China. If you get a fever or develop a cough or difficulty breathing during this 14-day period, avoid contact with others. Call your doctor or healthcare provider to tell them about your symptoms and your recent travel.”
Are there certain institutions that people should check on (like the Twitter account for CDC, for example) in order to stay up to date with any news regarding the coronavirus?
CDC.org would be the best resource at this time as things are evolving.
Are there any myths around contagious viruses or diseases that we might want to dispel?
MYTH: The coronavirus is new.
FACTS: While this strain of virus — 2019-nCoV — is new, it comes from an ancient family of coronaviruses that were first identified in the 1960s.
What would you tell someone planning to fly soon, if they’re concerned about the coronavirus?
- Postpone unnecessary travel
- Don’t travel while you are sick
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Discuss travel to China with your healthcare provider. Older adults and travelers with underlying health issues may be at risk for more severe disease.
- Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
View the original piece placement on Bustle.
