I first heard about the Corona virus in China the end of January. There was a virus that hit China hard and was spreading and causing deaths. China was on lock down. We saw people wearing masks when we flew to Cozumel. We heard about a cruise ship with thousands of passengers that were being quarantined for weeks because of it. It had not been in the US yet. Then a few cases were reported that were tied to travelers. They were quarantined and closely watched. Then a few cases in Washington that had no contact or travel so it was starting to spread in the community. Each day the reports get a little more concerning and a little closer to home. ISU and Uof I and I am sure more will follow, are pulling students home from study abroad international programs. Today the reports came that there were cases now in California. Today I got an email from the high school, planning and preparing for future changes. I am sure it is a matter of time before it spreads further. There is much discussion and concern. On one side you have people who say the media is totally overreacting, it is just like a cold and more people die from influenza. The cases of deaths have had underlying conditions. There is also the conspiracy theory that it is all related to politics. Some are going to extreme measures of quarantine, shutting down schools, staying in and home for at least 2 weeks and scrubbing and disinfecting everything everywhere.
What this will look like for all of us, I am not sure. What kind of plan should we have and when do we stop going out in public and how extreme do we need to go? I am thankful we live isolated out in the country, not in an apartment or a busy city with subways and buses.
Here is information I took from March 5, 2020. As I type this I know each day the virus continues to spread. There is no stopping something like this, it is just a matter of controlling it the best we can. I fear for what it will do. It is affecting the economy and I fear it will continue to, just how bad is the question. Markets have hugely been affected, which has a huge impact on farmers. Trade with China is already a huge problem. I also fear for what it will do when it gets here, in Iowa, close to home. The news is packed full of coronavirus news, each day more cases, and new areas. It's also on many shows, and specials informing people what to do. It is overwhelming and depressing. I have to shut the tv off and not watch for a couple days. Currently there are no cases in Iowa. Will any of our family members get sick? Will we be isolated for awhile? Will they shut down schools, and activities? Will we avoid the public for a period of time. Will we know anyone personally that dies from it? The future is unknown, and I fear for what it can bring. I trust the Lord and his ways, I know he has a plan and he is our Good Good Father.
Comments