Coronavirus is spreading in the US. Here’s everything to know, from symptoms to how to protect yourself

Coronavirus cases are increasing rapidly across the US. So, how did it start? And how should you prepare? Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19.

Grace Hauck, USA TODAY:

The deadly coronavirus that began as a handful of infections in central China has rapidly become a worldwide outbreak, shutting down entire cities, threatening the health of thousands and testing the strength of the global economy.

More than 97,800 cases of the new coronavirus have been confirmed worldwide across more than 60 countries, and more than 3,300 people have died, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

As the rate of new cases in China begins to decline, hot zones are cropping up in Europe and the Middle East. In the U.S., the death toll is creeping upward as new cases are confirmed across the nation.

Weeks into the outbreak, there are still more questions than answers. Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19.

Questions answered by a doctor: Should I panic? What are best prevention steps? How much does a COVID-19 test cost? It is *not* $3,000 How to prepare for a quarantine: The shopping list: Hand Sanitizer, Water, first aid, food, diapers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies

Coronavirus symptoms:

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some people don’t have any symptoms at all. The most common symptoms resemble the flu and include fever, tiredness and dry cough. Some people also develop aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea.

About 1 in 6 people becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing, according to the World Health Organization. If you experience fever, cough and shortness of breath, call your doctor.

How many coronavirus cases are in the US?

There are at least 600 confirmed cases in the U.S. across 17 states, according to Johns Hopkins. Officials warn that many more people are likely infected. At least eight people in the U.S. have recovered. Of the confirmed cases, some are travel-related, some have spread person-to-person, and some were repatriated to the U.S. from Wuhan, China, and the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

for more information go to: USA TODAY: