(WXYZ) — In our Health Alert tonight, as the coronavirus continues its deadly rampage, some medical experts are predicting that this virus may never be eliminated. Instead, it could become an annual menace.
That would be the best-case scenario. And it’s certainly happened in the past, like back in 2003 with the SARS outbreak. But unfortunately, this virus is different. And researchers are now saying that it might establish itself as a community coronavirus. Meaning that it could become another seasonal bug that we have to fight year after year from fall through spring. Just like other respiratory illnesses like the flu and the common cold. Now that’s not to say it will happen for sure, time will certainly tell. But medical experts who have been comparing other outbreaks like the H1N1 pandemic back in 2009 to this novel coronavirus do see similarities between them. However, if we look on the bright side, the H1N1 has never been as deadly since that first year it emerged.
We’ve been hearing reports that the H1N1 is making a quiet comeback, what can you tell us about that?
You’re absolutely right. The H1N1 strain of influenza A, which is a descendant of the virus that killed thousands of people around the world is making a comeback right here in Michigan. Just when it looked like our flu numbers were slowing down, the H1N1 appears to have slipped in through the back door. And now our flu numbers are back up as many folks are affected with a second strain. So please take the necessary precautions. I say this over and over again because it’s extremely important. Wash your hands really really well with soap and water, cover your coughs and sneezes and stay home if you’re sick.
Question: Now a cruise ship that docked in New Jersey had some passengers screened “strictly out of an abundance of caution”, however some landed at a nearby hospital. Can you tell us what happened?
Over two dozen passengers were screened for coronavirus symptoms on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. They were all Chinese nationals who had traveled from mainland China. Reports say that none of them were from Wuhan, the outbreak epicenter. Now 23 of them had no signs of the virus while 4 others were sent to the hospital for observation and additional screening. The cruise ship was given permission to continue on its journey, however, the ship is staying docked. They’re delaying their departure by a day, hoping to get test results back before sailing the seas again.
This week on the Dr. Nandi Show, while death is a normal part of life, many of us are too afraid to talk about it. But Dr. Nandi, MD boldly dives into this uncomfortable topic with deep and provocative guests. Author Robert Clancy explains a powerful and comforting message: happiness can be found in the darkest of times. You’ll hear how one guest coped with 3 devastating losses: her father’s death, her best friend’s murder, and her husband who died of a massive heart attack. Plus a local Energy Healer shares her near-death experience and how she helps people prepare for death. Join Dr. Nandi this Sunday, February 9th at 5 PM.
