Hey dear readers, CoronaVirus – Symptoms & Precautions. As Coronavirus spreading, I am not writing this post to make you scared or anything. Just to spread awareness and to encourage people to stay safe from Coronavirus. Because as of now there is no vaccine for CoronaVirus. So it is better to know more about Coronavirus to be aware.
Scientists and health officials are learning / researching more about the new Coronavirus behind an epidemic that has reached dozens of countries. Here are some of the updates available so far.
What is a Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses that are common among animals, typically affect the respiratory tracts of birds and animals. In rare cases, they can be transmitted from animals to humans. The rapid spread of the virus proves that it can be transmitted from human to human as well.
This new virus is called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or Sars-CoV-2. The disease it causes is called COVID-19. (COVID-19: “CO” stands for “corona“, “VI” for “virus” and “D” for “disease” The number 19 stands for 2019, the year it emerged.)
COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. It was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, where it has caused a large and ongoing outbreak. It has since spread more widely in China. many cases have since been identified in several other countries. There are many confirmed cases in India also, global infections of more than 94000; this deadly virus killed more than 3200 people worldwide.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
Coronavirus can make people sick, usually with a mild to moderate upper respiratory tract illness, similar to a common cold.
Some of the symptoms are – general feeling of being unwell, Sneezing, Runny nose, Sore throat, Headache, Cough, Fever. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia with severe acute respiratory distress.
How is this Virus Spread?
Human coronaviruses are spread from someone with confirmed coronavirus to other close contacts with that person through contaminated droplets spread by coughing or sneezing.
Touching or shaking hands with a person who has the virus can pass the virus between individuals.
Making contact with a surface or object that has the virus and then touching the nose, eyes, or mouth.
Most COVID-19 cases appear to be spread from people who have symptoms. A small number of people may have been infectious before their symptoms developed.
How is it prevented? or the precautions
- Clean your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or a flexed elbow.
- Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
- Practice cough etiquette (keep away from other people, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and clean your hands).
- If you are travelling to any Asian countries do not visit live bird and animal markets, including ‘wet’ markets.
How long does the COVID-19 infection last?
The infection period for the virus will vary from person to person. Mild symptoms in an otherwise healthy individual may resolve over just a few days. Similar to influenza, for an individual with other ongoing health issues, such as a respiratory condition, recovery may take weeks and in severe cases could be potentially fatal.
Who is affected?
Adults of all ages have been infected, but the risk is highest for older people and those with other health conditions such as diabetes.
Most of the people whose deaths were included in a study by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention were aged 60 or older, and/or had other illnesses. Many patients who have died were admitted to hospitals when their illness was advanced.
Coronavirus treatment
There are no vaccines that protect against COVID-19. There is no specific treatment, but research is underway. Most of the time, symptoms will go away on their own and experts advise seeking care early. If symptoms feel worse than a standard cold, see your doctor.
How to stay safe from Coronavirus?
- Wash and sanitise your hands more often : We touch lot of things around us and then we touch our face. The virus enters our body through eyes, mouth and nose.
- Travel less & stay indoors: Crowded places, airports, cinema theatres, shopping malls, etc. are the most dangerous places. It increases the chances you will catch the infection from someone who is infected. Avoid these places as much as you can.
- Wear a Face Mask if you are going to crowded places: Wearing a face mask prevents you from touching your face – especially your nose and mouth. It also prevents from inhaling any droplet particles from the air.
Can face masks protect you?
Health experts and mask makers say only a properly used reusable N95 respirator mask certified by an independent agency can guard against the virus. Paper or polyurethane foam masks don’t filter out smaller particles responsible for transmitting infectious agents.
How Effective Are Masks?
The World Health Organization and other experts report that a mask’s efficacy in social settings is inconclusive. But some health experts and mask makers say that properly used, the N95 respirator mask can guard against the new coronavirus.
How you can protect yourself from Coronavirus?
Suggested read: How to boost your Immunity
I hope that spread of Coronavirus subsides till then take care of yourself and your family.
If you get any latest information about Coronavirus, leave a comment below.
Disclaimer: All content on this web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only. Always seek the direct advice from the doctor if you have any questions or issues.
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