One of the most discussed topics around the world is the rapid spread of the coronavirus. If until recently, it seemed that the coronavirus is a problem that concerns only the inhabitants of China, then over the past few weeks it has become clear that COID-19 is a global problem.
The virus began to spread in Europe, so we should soon expect the start of an epidemic in the territory of the Russian Federation. Given this fact, Penza residents want to know if there is a Chinese virus in Penza and how much official data can be trusted.
Are there any cases of new coronavirus in Penza
On the morning of March 17, the first case of coronavirus infection became known. The virus was detected in the blood of a resident of Penza, who was hospitalized on March 13 with a complaint of shortness of breath and fever.
Earlier, on March 15, information appeared about the hospitalization of a resident of Penza with suspected infection with a new coronavirus. After conducting all the necessary examinations, as well as passing tests, the doctors came to the conclusion that the deterioration in the health of the hospitalized man was associated with the usual flu, and not with COID-19.
It should be noted that the current situation may change at any time, as only people who have characteristic symptoms that indicate the possibility of infection with COID-19 are tested. Given that this virus has an incubation period of two to three weeks, the actual official figures on the number of cases can change literally in a moment.
“The administration of the Penza region is taking all possible measures to prevent the possibility of an outbreak of the COID-19 virus, as Ivan Belozertsev, who holds the post of governor of the region, assured citizens.”
Panic in the city
So far, in Penza and in the entire Penza region, there are no panicky relations among the population. First of all, this is explained not by the measures taken by the regional administration to counteract the spread of the virus, but by the lack of information among people.
The population simply counts. That the new virus is nothing more than a new strain of influenza. This is the problem, since in the event of an epidemic, it will be difficult to convince the population of the need to introduce quarantine measures.
The leadership of the country and individual regions should not only be engaged in the purchase of medical masks, but also carry out explanatory work. While for children, adolescents and people under 40 who do not have any bad habits and serious chronic diseases, COID-19 may seem like a common cold, then in the elderly population this virus can very likely cause serious pneumonia. Pneumonia, together with an increase in body temperature up to 40 degrees, leads to death.
It is believed that the policy of hushing up the severity of the virus and the complications it causes, as well as the approaching epidemic, is explained by the desire of the leadership of the country and the region to prevent a possible panic. Perhaps such a measure makes sense, as our people will sweep food and essentials off store shelves. At the same time, individual citizens will not be ashamed to capitalize on panic by multiplying the cost of masks, antiseptics, and even salt and toilet paper.
“Try to avoid crowded places, give up close bodily contact with people, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after each walk. When the first symptoms of acute respiratory infections appear, immediately contact a medical institution.
Protective measures and restrictions in the city
As the governor of the Penza region Ivan Belozertsev, who delivered a video message to the residents of the region, noted, the situation in the region remains under control. So far, only one case of COVID-19 infection has been identified in the region. The leadership of the region is taking all possible measures to ensure the possibility of free purchase of medical masks in pharmacies.
In addition, it was decided to cancel mass events until April 15. Such measures are due to the desire of the region's leadership to prevent the possible outbreak of the coronavirus epidemic. At the same time, it is possible that in the near future a decision will be made to tighten such measures and start quarantine both in schools and kindergartens, as well as in universities and at most enterprises.