Italy Coronavirus – No Need to Panic

In the last 2 days I’m pretty sure that if you’re in Italy or thinking about coming over, you’re freaking just a little bit out about this whole Italy Coronavirus outbreak. I understand you’re away from home and you’re wondering why the hell did it start here of all the places. I mean I’m here as well, and I’ve got to say that I’m not a big fan of the whole thing. 

Anyway, the best way to keep a cool and composed manner of this is being properly informed. I just finished watching a Press Conference that was organized by the Protezione Civile, which is in charge of the task force, in which the Head of the Department Angelo Borrelli, gave the last pieces of information regarding the spread of the virus.

At the moment there are 219 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Italy, with 99 in hospital and 33 in intensive care, this is counting for the 6 that died since the outbreak, all over 70 and/or with pre-existing conditions from cancer, to diabetes and heart conditions, so it isn’t as deadly as the constant media outpour makes it seems.

All cases, for now, are reported to be in Lombardy, Veneto, Emiglia-Romagna, and Piemonte. There are 3 cases in Lazio as well, but they were brought in from other locations to the Spallanzani hospital.

Also, the towns where the two “patient 0” were found are in full lockdown, with no one going in or out. So, don’t freak too much about a widespread of Coronavirus in Italy atm.

Don’t go mad like in Milan where everyone just bought all of the food in every supermarket cause they thought that the end times were coming our way. Also, another reassuring bit of news is that the major supermarket chains in Italy released a statement that the Milan “fear-shop” isn’t going to affect supplies.

Also, the risk of developing a strong infection is quite low as well (The average, for now, is in 4% of registered cases). So, do be careful, but don’t freak out.

To prevent further Coronavirus contagions, the region of Lombardy (that’s where Milan is) closed off Schools, Unis, Museum, and also has pubs and other nightlife activities, close at 6 pm. And yes that means it closed down the Duomo of Milan, Palazzo Reale, and the Teatro Della Scala.

Do remember that if you’re having any flu-type symptoms you should first call the 1500 number, that is the Italian Coronavirus helpline, where you’ll be advised on what to do. Plus I’m pretty sure you’re Uni put you in contact with a local doctor, so it’s also advisable to call them if the helpline is too busy. Plus this way you’ll probably be visited as well. But whatever you do, do not go to hospitals until instructed so, because people are losing their minds and the risk of actually being infected is a lot higher. 

In the meantime, wash your hands and if you feel any symptoms stay in and rest cause it could also be just the simple flu.