- The novel coronavirus , which originated in Wuhan, China, has spread to at least 81 other countries, including the US.
- While CDC testing for coronavirus is free, a hospital trip and other procedures to rule out coronavirus can still cost thousands of dollars.
- But avoiding the doctor for financial reasons could potentially amplify the spread of the virus.
- Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .
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Coronavirus is putting Americans' physical and financial health at risk.
The outbreak originated in Wuhan, China, and so far has killed nearly 3,300 people and infected more than 97,000. The virus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19, has spread to at least 81 other countries .Most of the deaths have occurred in mainland China, but 230 deaths have been reported elsewhere, including 11 in the US.
While the virus has a 3.4% death rate as of this week, experts predict that will get lower as more cases are reported. That's because the virus is, for most people, non-lethal.
But it does have the potential to wipe out the savings of some everyday Americans who are struggling to afford medical costs. A trip to the ER or urgent care for coronavirus can set them back by thousands of dollars , to the point of bankruptcy , but avoiding treatment for financial reasons could potentially amplify the spread of the virus.
Here are 11 facts that show the new financial crisis that getting coronavirus treatment could create for the typical American.
See Also:
- Here's what business travelers need to know about changing or canceling travel plans as the coronavirus spreads to every continent except Antarctica
- American bankruptcies could get a coronavirus bump, even among the insured
- Inside the relationship of Mike Bloomberg and his longtime partner, Diana Taylor, who met at a business lunch 20 years ago and live in a 5-story Manhattan townhouse
SEE ALSO: American bankruptcies could get a coronavirus bump, even among the insured
DON'T MISS: Coronavirus testing is free, but the hospital trip may set you back thousands. One graphic breaks down potential costs.