Costa Del Sol Coronavirus Update

Costa Del Sol Coronavirus Update. Figures today show a total of 72 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Andalucia.

Costa Del Sol Coronavirus Update

At 14.00 on Tuesday 10th March, the number of active confirmed cases of coronavirus in Andalucia stands at 72. Twenty two of these patients are being treated in local hospitals, the rest are recovering in isolation in their own homes.

Across Spain 1650 people have tested positive for the virus, which has caused 35 deaths here. Infection rates are rising rapidly, as figures show 149 new cases were reported on the 8th March compared to 557 new cases on the 9th March.

Experts are advising against using face masks as a precautionary measure.

Coronavirus Mortality Rate

The mortality rate for coronavirus currently stands at around 3.4% globally (source: WHO). In direct comparison, the flu has a mortality rate of around 1% (source: WHO).

Experts maintain that there is no need for panic, and whilst infection can be unpleasant it is very unlikely to be fatal for anyone in good health.

Frequent hand washing is advised to help protect yourself from catching coronavirus.

Protect Yourself From Coronavirus

There are some simple steps you can take to minimise your risk of catching the coronavirus. The CDC has issued these guidelines:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
It is not not recommended that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19 (coronavirus).

The CDC has advised against wearing facemasks.

Face masks Not Necessary

Despite the advice not to wear face masks, many pharmacies in the area are reporting that they have sold out. Chemist Juan Garcia in Malaga is urging people not to buy them until they are needed. “The face masks are not very effective at preventing you from catching a virus. Their main purpose is to prevent a carrier from spreading the illness. It’s better not to buy one unless you think you may be exposed. The best preventative measures would be to use hand gel frequently and maintain good personal hygiene”.

Panic buying in the UK has seen shops run out pasta, hand gel, and toilet paper.

No Panic Buying On The Costa Del Sol

Supermarkets in the UK are running out of products including hand gel, soap, nappies, and toilet paper as people are panic buying and stockpiling because of the coronavirus – but Andalucia remains calm and most stores are well stocked. Some residents have reported difficulties purchasing sanitising hand gel, but most domestic products are readily available.

Shop owner Dani Moreno in Torremolinos says things remain calm at the moment. “We’ve not seen a big rush on domestic items so far. I’ve seen the panic buying in the UK on the news and that’s worrying. I hope people here don’t overreact to the situation. If everyone keeps things as normal then there will be no problems for us.”

Published: 10.03.2020

Written by Dave James