Scientists call it COVID-19, but the popular name for it is coronavirus.  You have likely heard and read plenty about this health issue.  Let me preface this discussion with the fact that I am no health professional, but I do believe in paying careful attention to the experts that are in the know about this virus.

I am no expert in the stock market either but it has been down dramatically in recent days.  What are the Wall Street traders trying to tell us, if anything?

Again, reading the true experts, what appears to be freaking-out the markets is the fact that we in America, and some other parts of the world, have no idea how many COVID-19 infections exist because there is a major shortage of testing equipment.  Markets do not like uncertainty.  If we do not know how many people are infected, that is a lot of uncertainty.

There is also no vaccine or reliable treatment for those infected.  Health experts say even a crash program would get a vaccine on the market in 12-16 months at best.

Fear is an emotion we all have as humans.  There has been some fear in America when you see hand sanitizing lotion impossible to buy because they all have been purchased already, or face masks are also almost impossible to find, people are afraid.

Again, based on what the experts tell us, the spread of COVID-19 could be worse than we are projecting or much less that we are projecting.  Without testing widely available, we are in a zone of uncertainty.

We have outstanding science experts at places like the NationaI Institute of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.  We need to read and listen to their guidance.

In Indiana, we have an outstanding State Health Commissioner in Dr. Kristina Box.  It appears Governor Eric Holcomb is listening to her advice and taking actions based on her analysis.

The City of Fishers has established part of their Web site providing information on the COVID-19.  You can access that information at this link.

A recent public opinion poll found that when something like coronavirus becomes an issue, people do not want to listen to politicians or most elected officials.  Most of those polled were clear:  they want to hear from health professionals that specialize in communicable diseases.

I have always believed that you cannot live your life in fear, but should always take reasonable precautions.  Let’s not let fear take over.  Listen to the health professionals and just be smart about how you go about your everyday life.