Coronavirus or 2019- NCov first reported in China, has grown to be a huge epidemic that has taken 132 people as its victims until today. World health organization’s risk assessment has deemed this virus to be of high risk since it has infected over 2800 people just in 3 weeks.
Where was coronavirus found?
Coronavirus or 2019 Novel coronavirus, or 2019-nCoV, is a new virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. It is named novel as it has not been previously identified.
At present, the exact source of Coronavirus infection has not been identified. They are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals. Initially many of the patients in Wuhan, China reportedly had some link to large seafood and animal market, suggesting the virus likely to have emerged from an animal source.
How does Coronavirus transmit?
The specific modes of transmission of the virus are not yet clear since it is a new type of virus. It’s still not confirmed how this virus spreads so easily from person to person. It is thought to have happened mainly when an infected person coughs or sneezes and there’s no vaccine developed against it till now.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
- A general feeling of being unwell
Coronavirus in India
Till now no such case has been reported in India even though positive cases have been confirmed in the neighboring states of Sri Lanka and Nepal. Indian government along with world health organization has taken extra measures to prevent the spread. They have set up compulsory checkup for individuals coming from china at 21 airports across India.
How to be safe?
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. These are some of the cautions that one can take.
- All non- essential travel to china or any affected countries to be avoided
- Observe good personal hygiene
- Practice frequent handwashing with soap
- Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing
Here is the list of affected countries you should avoid traveling to www.who.int
However, If you have come in contact with someone who is a confirmed case of coronavirus, you should self-monitor yourself for at least 28 days. Watch for the development of onset signs such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. If you observe any of the above symptoms, visit the nearest health facility for further advice and treatment.
In case the symptoms persist, please call the national helpline for information and assistance related to the coronavirus threat 011-23978046. To get more information on coronavirus in India, follow the Health Ministry of India on twitter.
Learning how to treat oneself during allergies plays a major role while dealing with viral and bacterial infections. To learn how to deal with allergies click the link and register below.
VMEDO First Aid Training Workshop.
