What We Know About the New Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that has never been seen before. Like other corona viruses, the disease stems from animals. Many of the people who were first infected either frequently shopped or worked in the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan.
Symptoms of COVID-19
One of the most alarming facts about COVID-19 is that it can cause pneumonia. Some common symptoms of people who have contracted the disease are reported to suffer from cough, fever, and breathing difficulties.
In severe cases, there can be organ failure. With viral pneumonia, antibiotics are of no use. The antiviral drugs used against flu will not work. Recovery of the infected depends on the strength of their immune system. Many of those who have succumbed to COVID-19 were already in poor health.
The World Health Organization advises on the basic protective measures against COVID-19
Wash your hands frequently
Always keep your hands clean by washing regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub. This is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of the virus.
Stay away from people who are coughing or sneezing
Maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) between yourself and anyone coughing and sneezing. When a person coughs or sneezes, they spray scant amounts of liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain the virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the coronavirus if the person is infected.
Wash hands often. | Hai Yang
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Your hands come into contact with many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once your hands are contaminated, they can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose, or mouth and continue to enter your body and make you sick.
Hygiene infographic. | Nicolas Nova
Make it a habit to practice good respiratory hygiene
Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief, bent elbow, or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the tissue immediately when you are done. You may also use a face mask that prevents the droplets from reaching and possibly infecting other people around you.
Keep abreast of the situation regarding COVID-19 in your area
Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. National and local authorities will have the most updated information on the situation in your area. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves.
Stay home if you feel sick. If you are experiencing fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, call in advance and seek medical care by following the directions of your local health authority to direct you to the correct facility.
Check out these sites regularly to keep updated on the latest on COVID-19
CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
WHO World Health Organization
