The Daily The Coronavirus Goes Global
Feb 27, 2020
In this discussion, Donald G. McNeil Jr., a seasoned science and health reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the looming threat of the coronavirus pandemic. He compares the current crisis to historical epidemics like the 1918 Spanish flu, noting alarming death rates and the challenges in modern healthcare. McNeil highlights regional responses and the unpredictability of the outbreak in the U.S., emphasizing the need for public preparedness. He also touches on the urgency for effective treatments and vaccine developments amid rising global concerns.
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1918 Flu Comparison
- Donald G. McNeil Jr. compares COVID-19's mortality rate to the 1918 Spanish flu.
- He emphasizes the potential severity, noting that many people knew someone who died during that pandemic.
Coronavirus Types
- Some coronaviruses cause common colds, while others like SARS and MERS are more lethal.
- COVID-19 differs by affecting the lungs deeply, leading to fever, cough, and potentially pneumonia.
Transmissibility
- While SARS and MERS have higher mortality rates, they're less transmissible than COVID-19.
- COVID-19's rapid spread, as seen on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, is concerning.