What is a corona virus?
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The coronavirus gets its name from a distinctive corona or crown like spikes known as glyccoproteins that projects from the envelope surrounding the particle. These virus are zoonotic- meaning they can be passed from animals to humans and humans to humans.
Symptoms of the COVID-19 infection include:
- Fever
- cough and
- shortness of breath.
How can I get COVID- 19? {a.k.a. Wuhan Coronavirus)
The COVID-19 is thought to spread much like other coronavirus’ although study of this novel virus is ongoing. Like other coronavirus’ it is believed to be spread from person to person who are in close contact with one another through respiratory droplets which are particles which are produced when an individual coughs or sneezes. These particles can be inhaled by others or land in mouth or nose of other people. This helps to complete the chain of transmission.
It is not thought that an individual can contract the virus though touching and infected surface and then touching their own nose, mouth or eyes. This particular virus appears to spread easily in China and as of this writing there have been 14 confirmed cases reported in the United States and in 37 locations world wide.
Incubation period:
“CDC believes at this time that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure. This is based on what has been seen previously as the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses. “
What You can do to protect yourself
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Practice good respiratory hygiene, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze into your elbow.
- WASH your hands frequently and thoroughly. (wash hands with soap and water with as hot water while singing the happy birthday song two times using five steps: Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry. ) If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
What is the treatement for COVID-19?
There is currently no treatment specific to COVID-19. Supportive care is warrented. US has begun trial of remdesivir (an antiviral drug) to treat patients with COVID-19 at the University of Nebraska. read more here
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