Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can evolve and infect people and then spread between people such as has been seen with MERS and SARS.
On 31 December 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) was alerted to several cases of pneumonia in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China associated with a live seafood market. In addition to seafood, this market also sold chickens, bats, marmots and other wild animals.
Cases linked with the outbreak have presented with fever, difficulty breathing and bilateral lung infiltrates on a chest radiograph. This coronavirus cluster was recognized early and as a result, public health officials have had a head start in containment and directed treatment planning, although no targeted treatment is available. People with confirmed novel coronavirus are receiving generic antiviral treatment.
While this is a rapidly evolving situation, based on the information to date, the virus is not considered an epidemic or pandemic and you can rest assured there is no change to your MediHelp insurance coverage. For members in affected countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has advised to avoid unprotected contact with live animals, thoroughly cook meat and eggs, and avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
Signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. Seek medical attention, according to local regulations, if you develop respiratory symptoms within 14 days of visiting Wuhan, inform your health service provider prior to attendance about your recent travel to the city.
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Additional information can be found on the WHO website at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019.