Corona Virus
It is only January 2020 and we already have seen a lot in the New Year. Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was one of the outbreaks which occurred. Coronaviruses are zoonotic which means that they are transmitted between animals and humans. Coronaviruses (CoV) are a group of viruses that cause diseases such as common cold, fever, cough to severe diseases such as MERS (Middle East respiratory coronavirus syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus). Thousands of additional cases have been confirmed in China. An increasing number of other international locations, including the United States, have reported additional incidents. The investigations are ongoing to learn more
Researchers are still performing studies on current facts concerning Coronaviruses, that may alter as the study progresses.
As per the research conducted the facts known regarding the virus are
- Coronavirus is a large group of viruses can also be said as a family of virus.
- Respiratory and Gastrointestinal is the type of diseases caused by this virus.
- Common cold to pneumonia are the illness caused by this virus. Commonly patients suffer mild diseases.
- While some viruses of corona family can cause severe diseases like.
| Diseases | Location | Year |
| SARS CoV | China | 2003 |
| MERS CoV | Saudi Arabia | 2012 |
| N CoV | China | 2019 |
The Virus was first identified when few pneumonia cases were reported in China. In the beginning, the virus was unknown later detected as Novel coronavirus. This virus was first reported in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China on 31st December 2019. The virus was spread when this affected person came into contact with their surrounding people and the health workers who were taking care of them. Many cases were reported in China first and latter too in other countries.
How the virus originated?
The virus first circulated in animal range and then spread to humans this is commonly known as spillover. Mutations in the virus or increased interaction between humans and animals are factors that spread the virus.
- MERS originated from Camels.
- SARS originated from Cats.
- Origin of 2019 Novel CoV is not known yet.
Transmission:
Precise dynamics of how coronavirus gets transmitted is yet to be detected. However, the infection typically spreads when a sick person encounters other while coughing and sneezing.
People who are most at risk of getting infected are the people who are in contact with animals specially the ones working in Live animal markets. Health workers serving infected people and their family members.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of the disease depend on the area in a human body where the virus has affected. Depending on that the diseases can be mild to severe. Some may only have fever, cough, shortness of breath, while others can experience pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death occur. The mortality rate has not yet been determined.
Diagnosis:
PCR (Polymerase chain reaction test) is a diagnostic test of coronaviruses. This test helps to detect a virus based on the virus’s genetic fingerprint.
Treatment:
Yet no specific medication or supportive care has been found for the treatment of coronavirus. Also, there are no vaccinations yet. Treatment and vaccines are under development. However, avoiding exposure to this virus is the best way to prevent this infection currently.
Prevention:
Standard recommendations for avoiding the spread of infections include:
- Covering mouth and nose especially when around people suffering from cold and cough.
- Avoiding contact with infected people.
- Masks and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) should be used in healthcare settings especially.
- Regular handwash at least for 20sec, clean hands with alcohol-based sanitizers or hand rubs (Personal hygiene)
- Avoid unnecessary unprotected contact with animals also, if you come in contact than wash hands properly.
- Animal products must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
- Should increase your water intake.
- Stay at home if unwell. If you are unwell and notice any of the above symptoms, consult with your medical help and let your doctor know about your recent travel if any.
- Avoid traveling to the affected cities.
According to studies locations with Confirmed 2019 Novel Coronavirus Cases are:
| China | Finland |
| Hong Kong | France |
| Macau | Germany |
| Taiwan | India |
| Australia | Italy |
| Belgium | Japan |
| Cambodia | Malaysia |
| Canada | Nepal |
| Philippines | Russia |
| Sri Lanka | The Republic of Korea |
| Singapore | United Arab Emirates |
| Spain | United Kingdom |
| Sweden | United States |
| Thailand | Vietnam |
To see a flowchart, click below to read about the evaluation of Coronavirus-suspected patients. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/identify-assess-flowchart.html
Take the necessary precautions and stay fit and healthy!
