“Living in fear of contracting a new virus”

While fully appreciating the severity and danger to health of the new coronavirus pandemic, am I alone in thinking that because of the frenzied Government reaction and media publicity, the public is now living in fear of contracting a new virus affecting the lungs and airways, for which there is no current cure other than that of the defence system of the human body?

The published ‘facts’ are that symptoms consist of a high temperature and new continuous cough. Advised treatment is self-isolation, thoroughly washing your hands regularly, drinking plenty of water and taking everyday painkillers if needed.

Testing is not required for self-isolation cases and it is suggested that the symptoms should get better or improve after seven days.

The UK death toll is 35 and there are c 10,000 people displaying the symptoms.

In my recent Star letter ‘Council’s response’? concerning freedom of information regarding the Sheffield tree-felling saga, I stated that it is acceptable for a National Government to withhold information from the public, because revelation would be a threat to our security or cause unwanted panic on the streets.

With the latter in mind, I am very concerned to read in the national press that Boris Johnson is quoted as saying that ‘many families will lose loved ones’ because of the virus.

As the Government and NHS advice is self-isolation and to let treatment and nature take its course for symptoms to get better/improve after seven days, I feel that his perceived ‘Armageddon’ theme forecast which is capable of creating national alarm is both unwise and unwarranted, based on the facts/advice given to date by Government and medical experts.