SARS, Coronavirus, Influenza A&B ... Oh My!

We've had Swine Flu, Bird/Avian Flu, SARS, Zika and Ebola and unless you avoid the media completely, you’ve probably heard about the latest virus to hit headline…the Coronavirus.

There have been five confirmed cases in the United States, more than 100 deaths in China and more than 4,500 others infected worldwide. We all need to be aware and cautious with this virus, but influenza continues to be serious threat here in the United States.coronavirus germ image

The CDC’s weekly influenza surveillance report continues to show that flu activity continues to climb. Several states throughout the Midwest avoided peak level of activity, but reports of influenza-like illness in most of the region’s states remain on the higher end.

Influenza B viruses have been the story of the 2019-2020 flu season, having been reported much more often than usual. However, the CDC says the proportion of influenza A viruses compared to influenza B is increasing.

It was estimated that 19 million people have been impacted by the flu this season through January, 10,000 of which resulted in death. Nearly 70 children have suffered influenza-associated deaths.

These virus’ are serious business and you should be prepared to do what you can to fight the possible spread. The good news is that you and your teams should already have the knowledge, products and programs in place to do it!

For Coronovirus and Influenza A & B, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The CDC recommends daily preventive actions to help prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses, including:

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular cleaning spray or wipes.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (sing “Happy Birthday”), especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed or unsanitized hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Together with our suppliers we offer a diverse number of EPA-registered products with Coronavirus and Influenza A & B claims, to see a complete list visit our recent blog, “Latest Updates Products for Novel Coronavirus”.