By now, we are all aware of the Coronavirus and the devastating effect this virus has had across the globe – but confusion remains the order of the day as many are still uneducated on the topic, or unaware of how to prevent contraction of COVID-19.
Who is at higher risk?
Early information out of China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:
- Older adults
- People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
If a Coronavirus outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time (an outbreak is when many people suddenly get sick.) Depending on how severe the outbreak is, public health officials may recommend community actions to reduce people’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19.
These actions can slow the spread and reduce the impact of disease.
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.
How does the Coronavirus spread?
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
People are thought to be most contagious when they are the sickest, but some spread is possible before a person even starts showing any symptoms. It may also be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
What are the symptoms?
The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Call your doctor if you develop symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, or have recently travelled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.
What can you do to prevent contraction of the Coronavirus?
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Healthcare professionals can stay up to date with the latest news and treatment methods of COVID-19 by visiting: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/caring-for-patients.html OR https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/faq.html
All information in this article has been supplied by the World Health Organisation.