The Ritzville Adams County Journal - Eastern Adams County's Only Independent Voice Since 1887

Keeping hospitals and health workers healthy is key to fighting diseases. With new and more deadly viruses, the job is more challenging.

Although the coronavirus has captured the world’s attention, it is important to note the Centers for Disease Control and Provention estimates 80,000 Americans died of flu and flu complications in the winter of 2017-2018 – the highest flu-related death toll in at least four decades.

The coronavirus outbreak is very serious. According to the New York Times, China’s Health Commission reported 361 deaths nationwide as of Feb.2. During the 2002-2003 SARS...