Coronavirus (COVID-19): Everything We Know So Far
Coronavirus has changed the lives of everyone in the world. While we journey through some challenging times, it important to know a much as you can to help prevent the spread of the infection to you or your loved ones.
What is Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which can cause diseases in both humans and animals
The newly identified virus is being called, COVID-19, causes respiratory (lungs) illness
The virus was discovered in Wuhan, China in December 2019
There has been connection between a large seafood and live animal market, suggesting animal-to-person spread
How is it spread?
COVID-19 is spread through person-to-person contact. This means people who are in close contact with one another (about 6 feet). Within the 6 feet range, you are at-risk for being exposed to respiratory droplets that maybe infected with the virus.
A respiratory droplet are made by the nose, mouth, lungs and throat by breathing, talking, sneezing, coughing) and includes saliva and mucus. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
While research is still been done, there is a possibility that COVID-19 can be spread to touching contaminated surfaces and objects and by someone who does not appear to be sick at all.
Symptoms
Cough (often reported as a a dry cough meaning not producing any mucus)
Fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher)
Shortness of Breath
Other symptoms of Coronavirus are similar to that of the flu including:
Fatigue
Runny nose
Body aches
Sore throat
diarrhea
loss of appetite
loss of smell/taste (not common)
Symptoms can be mild to severe. In severe cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia, kidney failure, respiratory failure and even death.
Treatment
Since COVID-19 is a virus, antibiotics are not effective at treating the illness. Antibiotics only treat infections caused by bacteria. As of now, there is no specific treatment for Coronavirus. The infection is treated with supportive measures- those that relieve the symptoms such as giving medicine for a fever.
Fast developing vaccines and clinical drug trials are being made during this crisis but not available to the general population until safe.
Prevention
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds
Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze
Then dispose of the used tissue immediately
Stay at least 3 feet from anyone who is coughing or sneezing
Stay home if you feel unwell
If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention
The key to stopping the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing. Stay home and stay safe.
