Question Part 4

Question: Do you know if crevices, regardless of the material, prolong the virus’s viability (i.e. rough vs smooth metal)?

You have asked a simple but profound question. The answer seems to be “no”. But sometimes the rough and cracked, infected surface will need more disinfecting. A further implication of the crevice aspect regards fingernails, as you try to keep your hands as clean as possible. It helps to cut your fingernails quite short during this time.

I have a few random thoughts on our times, today. A feral cat living in New York City these times would enjoy unique opportunities. This would include plenty of food, distancing from humans and little threat from vehicular traffic. However, cats can catch the virus and therefore, domestic cats should be kept indoors. Dogs are not nearly as likely to be infected but do not pat someone else’s dog as there is a slight chance of their carrying the virus in their fur. Interestingly, the animal most susceptible to this virus is the ferret which belongs to the weasel family

During the the great pandemic of 1918, it was the 20 – 40 years age group which was most severely affected. Tragically, it was not uncommon during that period, to approach a remote village and find all the adults dead. There were also many children famished from hunger, but still healthy otherwise.

The present situation threatens seniors more than any other age group. Unfortunately, nursing and retirement homes have proven to be deadly for too many, It has been estimated recently that the cohort of seniors in these locations has 10 to 20 times more likelihood of becoming ill with this virus than those living elsewhere. A highly contagious disease has too many advantages in a situation where personal health is compromised to begin with. Cramped quarters, social gatherings, shortage of protective equipment, and itinerant workers are just a few of the accelerants which have fuelled the firestorm.

Keep well everyone and thanks for reading this. The next blog will concentrate on trying to see the future.