The fall semester is getting closer to its halfway point, and spring break is only two weeks away. That means many University of Nevada, Reno students will be traveling. Many other students plan to study abroad, this year. With coronavirus on people's minds, air travelers are encouraged to take some precautions.
"We need to make certain that our students are safe when they travel abroad and the best way to do that is by disinfecting so they can take the appropriate practices for decontaminating surfaces, wearing masks, etc.," Dr. Steven Zell, UNR School of Medicine said.
Zell is a travel medicine specialist. He says taking those precautions is important because many viruses are airborne, including coronavirus. Zell says it is a good idea for travelers to take three ounces of a water bleach solution on the plane. He says the mixture should be one part bleach and 50 parts water. Passengers can use the solution to spray down their tray tables and arm rests, then let it set for two minutes to decontaminate the surface.
"Most of the viruses that are really worrisome are airborne," Zell said. "Their aerosolized flies in the air and they can fall and you can pick them up and contaminate it by touching your nose and throat."
The university is working with partners like the Washoe County Health District and following CDC guidelines. UNR also has the Nevada State Public Health Lab which is one of the few places with the capability to test for coronavirus.
Only 16 people have contracted coronavirus in the United States. The CDC says the chances to contract the respiratory illness are low but it does expect to confirm more cases in the coming days. Students say they are aware of the health threat but they do not expect anyone on campus to get infected.
"I'm not really concerned about the coronavirus," Emilie Rodriguez, UNR Junior said. "Probably more the flu. Like, I just got the stomach flu a few weeks ago. So, yeah, I'd say that's probably more of a concern."
"I'm not overly concerned but of course, I'm going to watch out if there's anyone with symptoms, anything like that," Colton Weidner, UNR Freshman said. "If the campus contacts us with emails about it all, then of course I'll be a little cautious."
Travelers are advised to check the CDC's website to learn about travel restrictions. Weidner says he is concerned about students who travel overseas during spring break.
"I am, as anybody should be or would be because I even know some friends that are going to be going to some places over in Asia and I'd be worried about them even being able to make it back," Weidner said.
"I think if everyone is wary and not going to controversial areas where there is a high chance of infection, I think everyone should be fine," Jacob Parker, UNR Senior said.
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