A new human-to-human respiratory illness, called the coronavirus, is the new health outbreak that began in Wuhan, China has killed almost 41 people and infected more than 1000.

Coronavirus identified in the 1960s can infect both animals and humans.

Every country esp. the neighbouring countries are taking proper measurements to not let the virus spread.

So, let’s educate us about Coronavirus and how can it be prevented.

What is Coronavirus?

The China Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

How does coronavirus spread and infect?

It spreads the same way other cold-causing viruses do:

1. Through infected people
2. Droplet infection by coughing and sneezing.
3. Touching an infected person’s hands, face, or infected doorknobs.

What are the symptoms?

Common signs and symptoms of infection are:

1. Upper respiratory tract infection causing-

• Coryza, runny nose
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Breathing difficulties

2. Lower respiratory tract infection-

• Pneumonia- esp. in older people, people with heart diseases and people with weak immunity
• SARS and MERS

Can coronavirus infection cause death?

It results in substantial morbidity and mortality with death resulting primarily from respiratory failure.

While lungs are the major site of infection, the brain is also infected in some patients.

WHO has declared coronavirus an ‘emergency in China’

Is there a cure?

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for coronavirus.

Prevention is the best way. The measures taken for preventing its infection are the same as in any other viral infection which includes-

1. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
3. Avoid contact with infected people
4. Drink plenty of liquids
5. Take proper rest
6. Use a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer.
7. Avoid smoking and smoky areas.

Are there any coronavirus infection cases in India?

Not yet.

Thankfully, the government has acted on this health scary emergency, and the Centre’s Ministry of Civil Aviation ordered screening of passengers arriving from China at seven Indian airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi.

Also, the Ministry of Health has issued a cautionary advisory to Indians traveling to China.

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Reference: https://www.webmd.com/lung/coronavirus#2

*Disclaimer–The content in this post is purely meant for educational purposes only and not meant to be a replacement for a doctor consultation, nor is it a medical recommendation or prescription of treatment.

*Image Source: skynews