March 8, 2020

The government's top infectious disease expert on Sunday said that the coronavirus outbreak is getting worse and warned elderly and sick people to avoid traveling or circulating in crowds — a point later reinforced by new CDC guidance.

The remarks from Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, signaled a change in tone from health officials representing the Trump administration, making it clear that the outbreak is past the point where it can be prevented from spreading or easily tracked. That contrasted with the more measured language from some Trump officials including Vice President Mike Pence.

Fauci's warnings were followed by CDC guidance recommending the public, especially those with underlying health conditions, defer any cruise ship travel. That guidance was released as public health officials prepare to evacuate thousands of passengers aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship off the California coast, where 21 people — 19 crew members and two passengers — have tested positive for the virus.

Read more:

https://www.politico.com/news/2020/03/08/health-officials-coronavirus-elderly-sick-risk-123889