COVID-19 Facts and FAQ

The COVID-19 pandemic can easily leave one confused, with new information and new developments coming out every day. I’m going to try to answer some students’ questions and present some important information. All facts are as of Thursday, April 2, and may change as new information is released. 

The symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, tiredness, and in extreme cases, difficulty breathing, according to the Center for Disease Control. However, one may have the disease and have no symptoms. 

“How long does it last on surfaces?” sophomore Bella Girard asked.

The World Health Organization reported that studies are showing that COVID-19 can last on surfaces for anywhere from several hours to several days. 

As of 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, Missouri has about 1,500 cases and 18 deaths. The number of cases in both the US and the world are growing exponentially, though. 

“Are we going to do online school for the rest of the year?” junior Hailey Heese asked.

This is the big question that we all are asking, and I cannot give a factual answer. However, when formulating your own opinion on this, you should take into consideration that the Washington Post reported that eight states, including Kansas, have closed for the rest of the year, and four have closed without setting a date to go back. 

The best way to prevent yourself from getting COVID-19 is to stay home and away from other people as much as possible, wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, and don’t touch your face. 

“How long is it going to last?” freshman Regan Miller asked.

This is another big question that no one knows the answer to. Experts have estimated that COVID-19 could last for anywhere from a month to a year in the US. Only time will tell.