PREVENTION IS THE ONLY WAY TO STAY SAFE FROM CORONAVIRUS

Sickening more than 90,000 people and killing about 3000 people (as on date), Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Dr. Anuradha T, Consultant Pulmonologist, Star Hospitals, Hyderabad Said, the virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel Coronavirus identified during an investigation into an outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China.The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source, but now it seems to be spreading from person to person.

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.

CAN SOMEONE SPREAD THE VIRUS WITHOUT BEING SICK?

People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).

Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new Coronavirus

CONTACT WITH INFECTED SURFACES OR OBJECTS

It may 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.

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some diseases are highly contagious (like measles), while other diseases are less so. At this time, it’s unclear how easily or sustainably the virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading between people.

HOW CORONAVIRUS AFFECTS

WOMEN

• Pregnant women are more vulnerable to viral respiratory infections like COVID-19
• High fevers due to infection can increase the risk of birth defects in early months of pregnancy
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CHILDREN

• There is no evidence that children are more susceptible than adults. Infection in children have been reported, including very young children
• Worldwide, there have been no deaths reported so far in children
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ELDERLY

• Elderly patients are more likely to suffer the most severe Coronavirus symptoms
• It weakens the immune system
• Increases the mortality rate

SYMPTOMS

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness.

These Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after the exposure to Coronavirus.

PROTECTIVE MEASURES

• Wash your hands frequently (after coming out of the washroom, before eating, after sneezing / blowing your nose) with soap for atleast 20 seconds
  • Palms
  • Back of your hands
  • Between fingers
  • Under the nails
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
• Maintain social distancing
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Practice respiratory hygiene when you cough or sneeze by covering your mouth and nose
• Place your used tissues only in dust bins
• If you have fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, seek medical care at the earliest
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
• Stay informed and follow the advice given by your healthcare provider

PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN IN CROWDED PLACES

• People who are suffering with cold and cough must use facemasks
• Do not use the same mask for more than a day
• Stay at safe distance (minimum 2 meters) from people who are coughing / sneezing
• Avoid / Do not touch following items directly at public places (use handkerchief / gloves / some cloth)
  • Door Knobs
  • Lift Buttons
  • Stair Banisters
  • Balcony Railing
  • Keyboard, Mouse at Internet Cafes
  • Gadgets / Digital Devices
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IS THERE A VACCINE?

There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19.

IS THERE A TREATMENT?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE SICK

• Visit your Doctor immediately
• Wear a facemask
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Avoid sharing personal household items
• Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
• Monitor your symptoms
• Isolation - Patients with confirmed COVID-19 should remain under complete isolation until the risk of secondary transmission to others is thought to be low. The decision to discontinue home isolation precautions should be made on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with healthcare providers and state and local health departments.
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BEWARE OF FAKE & UNAUTHORIZED INFO

Internet is indeed a boon to human civilization but we should be little careful in differentiating between official / certified information and the ones generated by ineffectual people. Request you to follow the instructions published in the Government Websites or articles Verified & Certified by qualified Doctors.

Book Appointment: Dr. Anuradha T, Consultant Pulmonologist, Star Hospitals, Hyderabad