Italy is currently experiencing the worst of the Wuhan coronavirus. It's so bad that the entire country is on a national lockdown as a means of helping to prevent the spread of the virus. Their death toll has toppled 2,500, with more than 31,000 confirmed cases of the virus, The Hill reported.
Some have said Italy is nine to 10 days ahead of the United States as far as the outbreak goes. The U.S. is beginning to see the start of "the curve," which health care officials are trying to flatten.
Despite that, Italians that are currently under quarantine have a message for Americans: take the Wuhan coronavirus seriously and listen to health care officials.
"I'm sure you've heard of coronavirus and I'm also pretty sure you're underestimating it," one woman in the video said.
Another woman said just 10 days ago she "even used to make fun of people wearing face masks" but now it's something that is essential.
The Italians made it clear that they too thought the Wuhan coronavirus was just like the average flu that goes around every year. It wasn't until that many people became infected and started dying that they began taking things seriously.
"What is happening is much worse than you thought it was," an older woman said. "You'll realize that even just being able to breathe air in your own house, it's something you should already be grateful for."
Their advice is simple: stay at home as much as possible. Rest, play board games, binge watch various TV shows and enjoy time with the family members and/or roommates you live with. One young man even suggested learning new skills, like playing the guitar.
"We underestimated this. You don't have to do the same," the video concluded. "Stay at home."
Even though the United States isn't on a national lockdown, the CDC recommends people stay home as much as possible, avoid restaurants, bars and any type of gatherings, especially of more than 10 people. Continue to practice good hygiene. Wash your hands, if you need to cough, cover your mouth with your arm, and avoid touching your face.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member