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First US coronavirus case of unknown origin
Courier-Post (Cherry Hill, NJ)
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As news reports indicate, there has been a rapid increase in the Coronavirus across the world and it is likely that cases will soon begin to appear in the United States.

The world is getting smaller. Americans travel more than ever before. What used to be another country’s issue can quickly find itself at our door. Fortunately, we have an educated populace that has access to common-sense preventative measures and a robust public health system to protect us.

As a veterinarian and member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, I have long been a leading Congressional voice on zoonotic diseases like the coronavirus. I recommend that Americans take the commonsense measures listed below to protect themselves and their families: 

  • Do not panic. The majority of Coronavirus cases are mild with symptoms similar to the common cold.
  • Make sure your vaccinations are up to date and be sure to get a flu shot if you have not.
  • Wash your hands often and avoid groups of people showing coughing and sneezing symptoms. You do not need a mask unless you are symptomatic.
  • Disinfect school and work surfaces with soap and water regularly.
  • Avoid travel to endemic countries.
  •  Rely on trusted sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Be wary of false information that is being spread through social media. 
  • If you or a loved one are ill or suffer from a chronic condition such as diabetes consider restricting your out of home activities since you are more susceptible to illness.
a person sitting on a bed: Workers sew hazardous material suits to be used in the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak at the Zhejiang Ugly Duck Industry garment factory in Wenzhou on Feb. 28, 2020. The number of new cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in China has declined in recent days, but infections in other countries have gathered pace. © NOEL CELIS, AFP via Getty Images Workers sew hazardous material suits to be used in the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak at the Zhejiang Ugly Duck Industry garment factory in Wenzhou on Feb. 28, 2020. The number of new cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in China has declined in recent days, but infections in other countries have gathered pace.

Coronavirus updates: WHO increases risk to 'very high,' tells governments to 'wake up'

As someone trained in zoonotic diseases, which are diseases and viruses that originate in animals and mutate to affect humans, I have a unique perspective on how animal and human health intersect.

Diseases like Ebola, SARS and the Coronavirus are all examples of pandemics that began in animals before spreading to humans.

This is why I have partnered with my fellow veterinarian Ted Yoho, R- Florida, to develop and advocate for the implementation of a framework called One Health.

One Health framework prioritizes coordinated research between federal agencies like the CDC and USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services to prevent, prepare for and respond to zoonotic disease outbreaks in the U.S. and internationally.

a close up of text on a white background: Dave Granlund © Dave Granlund Dave Granlund

We introduced the bipartisan Advancing Emergency Preparedness Through One Health Act to coordinate and fund a One Health plan so we can prevent outbreaks and rapidly respond to them.

At the national level, our public health system will need additional resources to contain this virus and protect Americans in the best way possible. Congress is working on that in a bipartisan manner right now and I will continue to advocate for the necessary funding and speedy development of a low-cost vaccine.

Meantime, I urge all to do your part to prevent the spread of this virus and take practical measures to stay healthy and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

Rep. Kurt Schrader, D-Oregon, represents the state's 5th Congressional District. The retired veterinarian from Canby has held the seat since 2008. You may reach him at https://schrader.house.gov/contact/

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Commonsense measures to protect ourselves against the Coronavirus | Opinion

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