Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) that was first reported from Wuhan, China, on 31 December 2019Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.

Common Symptoms:

Common signs of infection include

•  fever
• cough
• shortness of breath
• breathing difficulties.
•  infection causing pneumonia,
• severe acute respiratory syndrome
• kidney failure.

Prevention of COVID – 19

Till date, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV), those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms, and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care.

However Following  simple hygiene steps will keep us safe  & healthy against the virus:

• Wash your hands often
• Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
• Thoroughly cooking meat and eggs.
• Avoid close contact sick people
• Wear a mask  when you are coughing & sneezing
• Avoid crowded places like  bus stations, railway stati

Few Myths Busters

Can pets at home spread the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV)?
According to WHO research at present, there is no evidence that companion animals/pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the new coronavirus. However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets. This protects you against various common bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.

Do vaccines against pneumonia protect you against the new coronavirus?
No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus.

The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against 2019-nCoV, and WHO is supporting their efforts.

Although these vaccines are not effective against 2019-nCoV, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health.

Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus?
No, antibiotics do not work against viruses, only bacteria.

The new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a virus and, therefore, antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment.

However, if you are hospitalized for the 2019-nCoV, you may receive antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible.

COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates
From the evidence so far, the COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in ALL AREAS, including areas with hot and humid weather. Regardless of climate, adopt protective measures if you live in, or travel to an area reporting COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.

We’re sure, you now have a fair idea of what CORONA VIRUS  disease  is all about and the way it could impact your life. Please seek  immediate medical attention at the nearest healthcare centre if you find the COVID -19 symptoms, don’t ignore the symptoms as there is no medicine available at present.