The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared that the coronavirus is a worldwide pandemic. They made this declaration as the disease is spreading across the globe, new cases arise, and containment is not effective. [1]
WHO made this observation after watching casualties climb. As of March 11, 2020, infections are counted over 100,000 with over 4,000 deaths. Most of the worldwide cases are found in four countries, of which are China, South Korea, and Italy. Italy has gone so far as to quarantine the entire country.
Here In The US
As this virus creeps into the United States, the casualty list is expected to rise. In larger metropolitan cities, businesses are allowing employees to work from home. Large universities are moving to online classes. With the internet and online courses, even high school parents are opting for online lessons. More difficult to alter are events like sports events or cultural shows. Currently, the Capitol is closed to visitors. Likewise, the Missouri senate canceled sessions for next week. Other states around the country are adopting similar measures.
Is There Hope?
Yes. Worldwide, the number of recoveries equals half the number infected. Right now, people are recovering from the virus. Being diagnosed does not equal a death sentence. Experts and scientists are working on treatments and vaccines.
Notes:
- ^https://finance.yahoo.com/news/world-health-organization-formally-declares-coronavirus-a-pandemic-163331423.html (go back ↩)
