CORONA VIRUS

CORONA VIRUS (COVID-19) BASIC INFO

What is it?

According to the World Health Organization, “Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus”. It is an ongoing pandemic that has reached almost every country in the world and has resulted in many deaths.

The words “Coronavirus” and “Covid-19” are often confused with one another. COVID-19 is the illness caused by the coronavirus while the Coronavirus is a name that refers to a group of viruses that cause respiratory issues.

When and where did it start?

It started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and has expanded towards other countries ever since. There is no official evidence regarding the origin of COVID-19. However, there have been many speculations that have surfaced. For example, President Trump believes that the virus may have escaped from a lab in Wuhan, but there is no official proof to back this claim up. Some other theories include the origin being from bats, snakes, or some other animals, however, there is still no scientific proof.

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What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, malaise, dry cough, and shortness of breath. Nasal congestion, headaches, conjunctivitis, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell, skin rash, discoloration of fingers or toes, chest pain, or pressure are other symptoms of COVID-19. Some are more serious than others. COVID-19 affects everyone differently, so not everyone will experience the same symptoms if they get infected with the coronavirus.

How is COVID-19 transmitted?

Is there a cure?

COVID-19 can be transmitted directly and indirectly. The primary mode of transmission is through respiratory droplets. “Droplet transmission occurs when a person is in close contact (within 1m) with someone who has respiratory symptoms” (coughing, sneezing, etc), according to the world health organization. It can also be transmitted through indirect contact with surfaces in immediate environments.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a known cure at the moment. Many labs are trying to come up with a vaccine that can cure the virus. However, there are ways to prevent the virus.

Who is most likely to get the virus?

Everyone has a high chance of getting the virus. However, some may have more serious symptoms than others but that doesn’t mean they don’t have the virus. The elderly and people who have underlying diseases such as cancer, diabetes, etc, have a higher chance of experiencing more serious symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pains while others may experience milder symptoms.

How can we prevent ourselves from getting the virus?

Wearing a mask when you go out
Maintaining good hygiene by showering after every time you go out, washing your hands properly with soap and water, and constantly (you can click the button below to find out how to properly wash your hands), and using hand sanitizer constantly.
Stay quarantine at home unless you have to go out.
Distance yourself from the elderly (as they are the ones that are most likely to receive serious symptoms from the virus)
If you aren’t feeling well, go see a doctor and get tested for the virus.