Okay - as more facts are gathering, I think it's time to re-assess the risks. I learned two things today which concern me -
- The WHO says that there are increased cases with 'no epidemiological link'. That means, people are getting the virus and they don't know how they got it.
- Apparently the virus is causing myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle, which can cause permanent damage, and eventually death. This is extremely rare for a virus. Without getting too involved in physiology, I'll just say that viral infections to the heart are near impossible and only extremely rare viruses can do this.
Still, please don't panic. The deaths reported from the virus don't ever seem to include other pre-existing conditions the patient may have had, and so, I believe many of these deaths reported are because the infected were already of ill health. This is not unusual, as I'm sure most of you have known someone who has passed away from the flu because they were already very sick to begin with. Even China is reporting only a 2% fatality.
Because governments are lying, and because the media is stupid, we need to assume that not all the facts are out there. Nevertheless, don't buy into the hype that this is some crazy dramatic contagion that's going to kill you. All virus infections are dangerous, but we take them for granted because a vast majority of us can recover just fine without hospitalization.
At this point, I think it's likely many more people are going to catch this virus. So the best way to prepare is to stay healthy. If you haven't stayed true to your New Year's resolution, try again!
Chances are you'll be okay, but to be safe, get ready. Stay hydrated...this cannot be overstated. 64oz of water per day is a good measure. Cut back on junk food. Exercise. Breath deep and slow 3 times a day for a minute or two to refresh your lungs with new air. Personally, I don't take extreme measures to avoid infection, getting sick is okay. It's not convenient and it's not comfortable, but it's actually good to get sick because your immune system will get stronger, provided you are taking good care of yourself.
I watch this doctor regularly - he's a good source for the facts.