Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause disease in animals. They are many different kinds and some cause disease. A newly different type has caused the recent outbreak of respiratory diseases, now called Covid – 19.
Covid – 19 was discovered in the Wuhan City of China late last year. It has spread to nearly every country in the world.
As of April 3rd, 1,020,874 cases had been confirmed worldwide with the virus claiming 53,450 lives.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of Coronavirus may show within 14 days after exposure and they include:
- Coughing
- High fever
- Difficulty in breathing
Other symptoms can include:
- Headache
- Body ache
- Running Nose
- Sore throat
The seriousness of Coronavirus symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some people don’t show symptoms.
The elderly and those with existing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes are at a higher risk of serious illness.
Causes
Covid – 19 spreads from one person to another when they are in close contact. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets released when a person suffering from the virus sneezes or coughs.
It can also spread when a person touches a surface with the virus on it then touches his or her eyes, nose and mouth.
Treatment
As of now, there is no specific treatment for Covid – 19. Those who become sick from the virus can be treated with supportive and general measures that relieve the symptoms.
For severe cases, there may be additional options for treatment like therapeutics.
Risk factors
Being in close contact with someone who is suffering from Coronavirus for example when a family member or a medic takes care of an infected person.
Travelling from or residing in an area with ongoing spread of Coronavirus.
Prevention
There is no vaccine for coronavirus and the following can be done to reduce the risk of infection of Covid – 19:
- Avoid events and gatherings.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick or is showing symptoms of Covid – 19.
- Keep distance between yourself and others if the virus is spreading within your locality.
- Wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60-65% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with an elbow or a tissue when you cough and sneeze. Ensure you throw away the used tissue.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.
- Stay home and avoid taking public transportation if you are sick.
- Avoid handshaking, hugging and kissing people with flu-like symptoms.
If you develop symptoms and you’ve been exposed to the virus, contact the healthcare providers for medical advice to ensure your families, friends and those around you are not infected.
Take the following precautions to avoid spreading the illness:
- Wear a mask around people
- Isolate yourself
- Use a separate bedroom and bathroom
- Avoid public places
- Stay home from work and school
- Use private means of transportation
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