Coronavirus- Everything you need to know
These days whenever I check my phone or read newspapers or watch news, all I see and hear about is the Coronavirus. With the coronavirus creating so much of havoc in the last one month, it continues to haunt every country who have since been subjecting their population to quarantine themselves. This pandemic has become so deadly that it has led to panic and fear among everyone. Everywhere that I step outside, I see people wearing masks for protection. Is this air borne disease so dangerous? Do I need to get a check up too? What if my family falls sick? If these questions are haunting your mind just like mine, read this blog where all your doubts about the coronavirus will be clarified.
What is Coronavirus?
Scientists first found evidence of human coronaviruses (HCoV) in the 1960s in the noses of people with the common cold. Among humans, coronavirus infections most often occur during the winter months and early spring. People regularly become ill with a cold due to a coronavirus and may catch the same one about 4 months later. This is because coronavirus antibodies do not last for a long time. Also, the antibodies for one strain of coronavirus may be ineffective against another one.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
The symptoms of coronavirus is similar to flu-like symptoms and usually sets in 2-4 days after the virus infects the body. The symptoms include-
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Difficulty in breathing
How does the Coronavirus spread?
Being an air borne disease, the coronavirus spreads through contact. The virus can spread in following ways-
• Coughing and sneezing without covering the mouth
• Touching or shaking hands with a person who has the virus
• Making contact with surface or object that has been touched by an infected person
Who is likely to get the Coronavirus?
While the coronavirus can affect anybody at anytime, young children, people aged above 65 and pregnant women are most likely to be affected. This is because the children and older people have a developing and a weakened immune system respectively.
What to do if I feel sick or my family gets sick?
If you feel sick and your symptoms match to that of the coronavirus, do not panic. The first thing to do is get a check-up. Don’t visit a hospital directly. Get tested by your regular doctor. Be sure to wear a mask when you step outside.
Is there a cure?
Currently there is no cure for the coronavirus and the vaccine is being developed. For now, the doctors are only recommending the usual remedies for any viral illness- medicines to reduce pain and fever and fluids to avoid dehydration. If the breathing troubles worsens, one is also subjected to a ventilator.
Precautions to take
Precautions are always better than cure. Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, it is best to use a mask all the times, especially when stepping outside. Step outside only when needed. Avoid contact with anybody and resort to ‘Namaste’ to greet someone. Do not eat or drink outside. Make sure you only drink boiled water. While coughing and sneezing cover your mouth with a handkerchief. Wash your hands thoroughly after coming from outside. If you are at work or school and college, make sure to use a hand sanitizer at regular intervals.
With these necessary precautions to be taken, you can assure the best for your health and that of your family members. But if you do find any of the coronavirus symptoms, do not panic and remain calm. Get yourself tested immediately.