Coronaviruses (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). The novel coronavirus (nCoV)/Sars-Cov-2 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 (occurred in 2003) and MERS-CoV from Arabian/dromedary camels to humans (occurred in 2012). Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
Coronavirus disease common signs and symptoms
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath and breathing difficulties
In more severe cases, the infection can cause:
• Pneumonia
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome
• Kidney failure, and even death
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include:
- Regular hand washing;
Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. - Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands. - Thoroughly cooking meat and eggs
When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of the novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals;
The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices - Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as fever, coughing, and sneezing.
If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider.
May that outbreak end soon.
Stay Safe 🙂