Before we get too deep into a discussion of the coronavirus in New Jersey, let’s stop and wash our hands. No, put down that hand sanitizer -- more on that in a minute -- I mean go and wash your hands, with soap and water.
OK, now that we’ve taken the simplest, cheapest, most effective step to stop its spread, we’re prepared to discuss what’s happening with the coronavirus in New Jersey, and to think clearly about what we know, what we don’t know, and what to anticipate as more cases of COVID-19 emerge in New Jersey and across the country.
We’re proud to offer you Coronavirus in N.J., a newsletter briefing delivered directly to your inbox with only the most vital information about the local impacts of this global public health event. It’s free, and you can sign up on our newsletter subscriptions page.
We know your time is valuable, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of news about the coronavirus. We’ll only send an alert when developments warrant it, without speculation or hype. Subscribers to our breaking news alerts are automatically signed up, but you can add yourself to our rapidly-growing list.
For the journalists at NJ.com, our single-minded goal is to bring you the most timely and accurate information about this important story, with the context you need to avoid unnecessary fear, expense, or wasted time.
Lots of myths, hoaxes and just bad information are out there about the coronavirus. Here are some facts:
- The virus has likely been spreading for weeks, mostly undetected.
- Proper handwashing is the best defense against the coronavirus.
- A lot of people will get it. Most will be OK, and experience mild symptoms, if any.
- Some people will experience severe cases leading to hospitalization and serious illness.
- Some people will die.
Some more facts:
- The scratchy throat you get this week will probably be caused by seasonal allergies or a cold, not the coronavirus. Don’t panic the way I did for a minute on Sunday, before realizing the doors had been open all day in spring-like temperatures.
- The coronavirus “symptom” most of us are likely to feel is anxiety about the uncertainty of it all, as our Spencer Kent reminded us.
- In a winter with no snow days, there is the ironic feeling of an impending blizzard: At least one New Jersey school district has already altered its schedule, and others are in discussions about coronavirus contingency plans.
- While we all wait, we’re not really waiting: Seasonal businesses that depend on tourist dollars and student workers from the coronavirus-affected countries tell us “it’s the topic of the day.”
By the time you read this, chances are some things will change. But our reporters, visual journalists, social media teams and more are working to bring you the most important, accurate and necessary information. We encourage you to sign up for the Coronavirus in N.J. briefing, keep an eye on NJ.com and our other platforms.
We know you have questions and concerns -- we do, too. Please reach out to me at aquinn@njadvancemedia.com and tell us what’s on your mind.
-- Amy Z. Quinn is NJ.com’s Audience Editor, Newsletters and Briefings.