The US has decided to release $1 trillion to fight COVID-19. UK has released £330 billion business loan package due to COVID-19, and Italy is on total lockdown. This shows that COVID-19 is a very serious disease threatening the existence of mankind. Most readers are already aware of the COVID-19 dilemma the world is facing, but for the few that may not know, coronavirus, popularly known as COVID-19 is a disease that causes an infection in one’s nose , sinuses or upper throat. The virus typically causes mild cases of common cold and leads to respiratory infections like pneumonia.
In December, 2019 an outbreak in China by a new type of coronavirus spread worldwide in just few months.
Is coronavirus contagious?
Yes! Very. Coronavirus experts say that in a snowball effect, one affected person can end up infecting 59,000 people. Other experts say that the virus is about three times more infectious than the flu.
What are the the symptoms to look out for ?
The key symptoms to look out for are ;
- fever
- cough
- shortness of breath
Some affected people also reported
- abdominal pain
- muscle aches
- sore throat
- headache
- fatigue
How does coronavirus spread?
It appears to spread primarily through droplets as the infected person coughs or sneezes. These respiratory droplets either land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, or may be inhaled.
How deadly is the virus ?
Even though the most affected people eventually recover, about 3000 known deaths have occurred worldwide. This shows that the virus is quite deadly.
How long does the virus last?
The illness lasts somewhere between two to three weeks, according to some estimates although that is not definite.
Are masks helpful or not ?
In general, typical masks are not helpful for prevention. If one put on a face mask, the following steps should be taken into consideration;
1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
2. Check the mask for any holes or tears
3. Find the top side of the mask, which has a bendable area to shape to the top of the nose
4. Put the ear loops around each ear and pinch the mask to fit the nose. Place the bottom over the mouth and chin.
Covid 19 is a global pandemic that is on the increase every minute. Each and every one of us needs to play a role to ensure that the spread is controlled. As much as possible, stay home. Wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, practice social distancing (at least 1 meter away from each other), and seek medical attention if you happen to experience any of the symptoms.
Let’s join hands and defeat this virus.
REFERENCES
- Lisa E, March 2020. What you really need to know about coronavirus. Available at https://www.health.usnews.com
- CDC. How coronavirus spreads. Available at https://www.cdc.gov
- Webmd. What is coronavirus disease 2019. Available at https://www.wedmd.com
