There is an 11-year solar cycle in which solar activity is at a "solar minimum" for a while. During that time, there are typically outbreaks of novel viruses. Last time I believe it was SARS along with others. There was a fascinating article published in a scientific journal somewhere theorizing all sorts of wild-sounding things, including that perhaps these viruses actually enter earth's atmosphere from space during the time when the solar frequencies are too weak to eviscerate them.

Basically, it is nothing new and nothing to get worried about, in my view. That being said, I wouldn't willingly travel into the midst of an outbreak unless there was a very good reason! Otherwise I'd just strive to keep my immune system healthy along with a low-stress lifestyle as a precaution. Hope you're doing well Brian! Take care. :-)