This undated electron microscope image made available by the U.S. National Institutes of Health in February 2020 shows the Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus causes COVID-19. The sample was isolated from a patient in the U.S. (NIAID-RML via AP).

Important Information About COVID-19 or Coronavirus

• Posted on 13 March 2020
• By Dr. Adrian den Boer, DBC Health Center www.drdenboer.com

Note: This will be updated periodically as new info becomes available

1. If you have a runny nose and a productive cough, you likely have a cold.
2. Pneumonia caused by COVID-19 is a dry cough without a runny nose
3. A COVID-19 related cough/sneeze can travel up to 10 feet.
4. On metallic surfaces, the virus survives at least 12 hours, copper 4 hours, cloth 6-12 hours, in air up to 3 hours. Washing hands thoroughly or normal wash cycle for clothing takes care of the virus.
5. Drinking a little water every 15 minutes is very effective for all viruses. As viruses accumulate in the nasal/mouth passage, they can be washed down by the water into the stomach where gastric juices take care of them. This is an opinion, not a proven fact, but makes common sense. 
6. The virus will last only 5-10 minutes on your hand. I suspect the time is a lot longer, that is if anti-bacterial soap or wipes (this is a virus, not bacteria!) are being used since this disrupts the natural immunity living on the skin. In my opinion, regular soap is a better option.
7. Remember, soap works by mechanical means, scrubbing the hands for at least 20 seconds will be effective at removing the virus.
8. Gargle with salt water or echinacea in water.
9. I emphasize, drink a lot of water!

COVID-19 Symptoms:

1. Starts with sore throat 3 to 4 days.
2. 5-6 days later moves to lungs. To test your lungs: hold breath for 10 seconds. Should be effortless and without pain. (Per the UK Department of Health and Social Care. My opinion: this only works if you have no previous lung issues)
3. With the resultant pneumonia patients: experience high fever and breathing difficulties.
4. 80% of the infected have very little in way of symptoms. The 20% remaining tend to be the high-risk group, the elderly, and the infirm.

Added note: It is becoming increasingly clear that the virus specifically targets elderly that are frail, the infirm, and those with chronic health conditions. I advise that subgroup of our population to not travel and avoid crowds.

Updated March 14, 2020.