Covid-19 and Me? (coronavirus)
Updated: Apr 1, 2020
What is covid 19?
Covid-19 is a new illness (respiratory virus) that affects lungs and airways, the viral infection is called Coronavirus. Coronavirus (first) emerged in Wuhan, China at the end of 2019, where there was a cluster of cases at an animal market.
(Image source: Google images)
The main symptoms of coronavirus are a fever and a dry cough, these are the ones you should be on the lookout for. Headaches, a sore throat, a change in taste buds, and diarrhoea have also been reported in some cases and there is a mounting speculation that a loss of sense of smell may affect some.
Coronavirus shares similar symptoms to a common flu i.e mild, cold-like symptoms, runny nose or sneezing. Studies have suggested there is a possibility and that people could potentially be infectious without knowing they are carrying the virus.
If you need medical help for any reason, do not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. If you suspect you have the virus you should self isolate yourself for 2 weeks and call 111 for medical advice.
Use friends and family for support, if you are a person of high risk you advised to NOT leave your home even for necessities.
(source: NHS and BBC news and 111 Online)
How is it spread?
Coronavirus is mainly spread through close contact with carriers of the viral infection, ingestion of the virus through the mouth, eyes and nose. You can also contract the virus by touching objects or surfaces with the virus on it.
Respiratory droplets are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, these droplets can land on your clothing, face, mouth etc. As it stands (April 1st 2020) there is no vaccination or cure available to the public.
The image below shows the impact of a common sneeze, most sneezes carry respiratory droplets which are not visible to the naked eye. These droplets can land on your face, hands and clothing.
The image below stresses the necessity of social distancing.
(Image source: Google images)
Prevention
I’m guessing your next question is: “How do we protect ourselves during quarantine”. I’ve put together a list and guidelines issued via Boris Johnson, British Prime Minister and the NHS.
Stay indoors - social distancing
Do not visit friends or family
One form of exercise per day
Washing your hands for 20 seconds
Avoid using trains and buses.
Only leave the house for groceries, medicine or work
Here’s a link on how properly wash your hands: