President Donald Trump has taken to calling the coronavirus, or COVID-19, the "China Virus" or "Chinese Virus" this week. The decision to do this seems xenophobic to many, but Trump claims he's just trying to be "accurate." He was asked by a reporter at a briefing on Wednesday why he's calling it by its wrong name, and he attempted to explain.
The CDC has a section on its site dedicated to stigma pertaining to the coronavirus.
"Fear and anxiety can lead to social stigma, for example, towards Chinese or other Asian Americans or people who were in quarantine," the section reads. "Stigma hurts everyone by creating more fear or anger towards ordinary people instead of the disease that is causing the problem. ... Counter stigma by learning and sharing facts. Communicating the facts that viruses do not target specific racial or ethnic groups and how COVID-19 actually spreads can help stop stigma."
In addition to avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people and social distancing, the CDC has issued some tips for helping to avoid contracting the disease.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
