The Confusion Behind the Virus

Empty CSUF campus

By Adriana Lopez

Twitter: @AdrianaViews

The early months of 2020 were marked by the quick spread of the coronavirus, and confusion that spread just as quickly.

Part of the confusion was due to the outbreak being an unprecedented event for most people and information seemingly being withheld for some time.

The Chinese government silenced its citizens who tried to spread word of the virus, which slowed the process of information being released to the public and put a spotlight on China’s oppressive regime.

By March 3, the World Health Organization (W.H.O.) confirmed over ninety thousand cases globally.

Graph of distribution of COVID 19 cases courtesy of W.H.O.

Yet President Trump repeatedly downplayed the gravity of the situation.

President Trump compares the coronavirus to flu

President Trump even went so far as to call the pandemic a hoax invented by Democrats to derail his presidency.

President Trump calls coronavirus outbreak a “hoax”

With the added speed of social media, false information about the virus was quickly spread.

This trend has continued, despite information being readily available on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website. Leaving multiple organizations the tasks of constantly dispelling false information.

Washington Emergency Management Division tweets to inform people to not eat/ inject themselves with disinfectant

Due to the growing threat of the virus, many colleges and universities announced a transition to virtual teaching prior to governors placing stay at home orders within their state.

The quick spread of misinformation combined with sudden transitions left many students anxious and desperate for accurate information, including California State University Fullerton students.

With CSUF students anxieties building, Alma Aguila, a registered nurse at the Rialto Unified School District, answered students’ questions.

Aguila stresses the importance of maintaining good hand hygiene and maintaining a safe distance from anyone that catches the virus. This includes making sure that all infected people have their own room and restroom when possible.

Aguila also asserts that people should stay home as much as possible in order to reduce the possibility of contracting or spreading the virus.

For additional information on COVID 19 go to www.cdc.gov.