If you have been watching the news, you will know that the coronavirus is a new, and scary, virus. Currently, there are around fifteen known cases of coronavirus in the United States. Depending on your focus as a travel nurse, you may be surrounded by the feverish and sick every day. This also goes for travel. When traveling, especially by plane, you will be exposed to a wide variety of unwell people. Scientists are not yet sure exactly how coronavirus is spread, so it is good to be as informed as possible before heading out on your next assignment. 

What is Coronavirus 

Coronaviruses are all part of a large family of viruses that cause illnesses. These illnesses can range from common colds to more severe diseases, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that is causing the current outbreak. Coronaviruses are transmitted between animals to humans. nCoV has not previously been identified in humans. 

From what scientists have been able to observe, the new coronavirus has been spreading from person to person. It is currently possible that it could be spreading through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes. However, nobody has been able to determine how exactly the new coronavirus spreads or how contagious it is. This is a very new virus, so researchers are currently working at max capacity to understand more about it. 

Symptoms of Coronavirus 

As a travel nurse, you are sure to be wary of certain symptoms in others. Coronavirus symptoms can range from mild to severe signs of infection. Common signs of coronavirus incorporate respiratory symptoms, fever, shortness of breath, coughing, and breathing problems. In severe cases, the infection can cause severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, pneumonia, and death. 

Avoiding the Spread of Coronavirus 

There is currently no vaccine for coronavirus, meaning that you should take extra precautions to avoid being infected with it. This means washing your hands or sanitizing them with alcohol-based hand sanitizer often. As a travel nurse, you will be putting yourself in locations that could be full of potential virus carriers. Avoid contact with those who seem sick. Additionally, avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose if your hands are not clean. You should also avoid eating raw meat or animal organs. If you are in an area experiencing an outbreak, you might consider wearing a facial mask. You will also want to avoid touching live animals in any area with recent coronavirus cases. 

If you have a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or are sick after your travels, you should visit your health care providers immediately. Ensure that you warn the office of your symptoms before visiting, as they may have you wear a face mask to avoid the spread of a potential virus. Additionally, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you are sick, stay home from public locations, such as work or school. 

Travel Nursing Jobs 

Interested in travel nurse jobs? Travel nurses are currently in high demand. When it comes to travel nursing jobs, New Directions Staffing provides some of the best. Additionally, New Directions Staffing provides some of the best compensation and benefits in travel nursing. You will never be alone when working for New Directions Staffing, as they provide great support and resources. To find out more or submit your resume, visit our website!