As new cases of the coronavirus (or COVID-19)
are confirmed across the world, many people are wondering: how do I know if I
have the coronavirus? Can this novel virus be avoided? The following guide will
help you understand more about the symptoms of this virus, how you can potentially
Coronavirus
Symptoms
The symptoms of coronavirus may be “silent”
for several days, as someone can be infected with the coronavirus but not
experience any symptoms for 2 days up to around 14 days after the infection has
taken root.
There are some symptoms which can help
differentiate COVID-19 from other diseases. The three known symptoms associated
with the coronavirus include:
· The development of a couch
which becomes more severe as the hours or days pass
· Shortness of breath
· Developing a low-grade fever
which increases gradually
If you believe you have COVID-19, then you
should contact your primary healthcare provider as soon as possible. Do NOT go into the office without calling your physician first, as they will want to
avoid exposing others to the virus if do test positive.
If you have a medical emergency, call 911
and let them know that you suspect you may have COVID-19. If you have a face
mask at home, put it on before emergency personnel arrive.
Can Coronavirus Be Prevented or Avoided? How Can The Impact of the Virus Be Reduced?
Can Coronavirus Be Prevented or Avoided? How Can The Impact of the Virus Be Reduced?
The coronavirus is primarily spread through airborne contact, which includes being in close proximity to someone who is
infected; the disease is also spread via sneezing and coughing. The virus can
survive on surfaces, but research is still being done on how likely it is that
people will become infected via touching surfaces (such as doorknobs,
packages, etc.) that have been handled by an infected person.
Odion Ighalo sends a hopeful message to Manchester United fans amid coronavirus pandemic
There are three primary steps to take if
you want to avoid getting or spreading COVID-19. These are:
· Wash your hands: Wash your hands with
soap (it does not have to be antibacterial soap!) as often as you can. If you
can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes. Do not touch
your face, eyes, mouth or nose.
· Social distancing: Avoid close physical
contact with others, especially if you are in a public space or store. Do not
go to events with large crowds or crowded areas if possible.
· Self-quarantine: If you have any
symptoms, quarantine yourself for 2 weeks. Do not come into physical contact
with anyone, including family members. Use your own utensils, plates, bathroom,
etc., and do not allow other people to come into contact with anything you
touch.
If everyone takes these above steps, the
impact of the virus will be greatly reduced. This is called “flattening the curve,” which will lower infection rates and reduce the workload on hospitals
and healthcare workers.
Conclusion
