Many Americans are affected by the new deadly virus spreading across the world.

The Coronavirus is a deadly outbreak of a respiratory illness. It first originated in China, and has now spread to the United States as fear grows that it will affect the country. 

On January 31st, the president of the United States signed a “Proclamation on Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus,” which limits entry into the United States of persons who traveled to mainland China to the U.S. Now, airlines are canceling all flights to China. Delta, America, United Airlines, and international carriers are also refusing services to China. 

Recently, a British cruise ship, The Diamond Princess, had over 400 American passengers aboard. The ship set sail on January 31st. But with increasing reports of the Coronavirus, the ship docked on February 3rd in Yokohama, Japan. The ship, which has been quarantined since arriving in Yokohama, has the most Coronavirus infections outside of China. With Americans stranded on the ship, many were left helpless.

 The United States government believed that a 14-day quarantine process would be the best plan for American citizens. Any citizens who test negative for the virus will be allowed on an aircraft to travel back to the US. Citizens who test positive, however, will have to remain in Japan. 

The rise of the Coronavirus sparks worry for other American citizens. With over fifteen confirmed cases in the states, many are wondering how it will affect the local community. 

“It is crazy that in less than two months, a virus can affect so many people across the world,” said senior Katie Crowe.

Additionally, with different viewpoints regarding the situation, many believe U.S. residents should fear the virus, but others claim the virus will only be a short term issue. 

“I think that this virus will decline in the months to come. Yes it is a huge issue now, but I think that it will slowly decline later on,” said freshmen Sophia Elizaj. 

Hopefully, the Coronavirus which has affected more than 71,000 people globally and is rapidly spreading across the world, will soon be controlled through a vaccine and/or other medical solutions.