How To Protect Yourself From Coronavirus: Symptoms & Precautions

A new Chinese coronavirus, a cousin of the SARS virus, has infected thousands since the outbreak began in China in December.

As per sources, about 72,436 cases of pneumonia caused by a new deadly virus (coronavirus) has affected the people of China.

And, the virus is spreading to other major cities. The confirmed cases have been reported in countries like Thailand, Japan, South Korea, India, and the US.

Till now, 1,868  people in China have succumbed to death because of this deadly virus and if the situation continues to deteriorate, the WHO may declare it an international public health emergency.

Because prevention is better than cure, here are some important facts that you need to know about Coronavirus to protect yourself and your family:

#1. What is Coronavirus?

As the virus looks likes spiked rings under an electron microscope, it is named CORONAVIRUS. It belongs to a family of viruses known as Coronaviridae.

It is the spikes on their outer layer that helps them bind cells which finally lead their entry into the cells. Once the virus enters into the cell, it converts itself into a virus factory and leads to the production of more viruses that spread across the body.

Though these types of viruses are most commonly found in animals, when they enter into the human body system, they cause fever, respiratory illness, and inflammation in the lungs.

Common human coronaviruses usually include mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses like the common cold that generally last a short amount of time.

#2: Where did Coronavirus originate from?

Though the researchers still need to conduct experiments to confirm the virus’ origin, according to CNN, the virus most probably originated in the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan, China.

#3: What are the symptoms that one needs to be cautious of?

The symptoms could range from running nose to headache cough to sore throat or fever. The infection results in a general feeling of being unwell.

It is important to note that the elder people or kids or people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of being affected with a much serious respiratory tract illness like pneumonia or bronchitis.

#4: How does the Coronavirus spread?

Specifically, this family of virus spread from human contact with animals. Simply a cough, a sneeze or even a handshake could cause exposure to this virus. It could also spread if one touches an infected person’s mouth, eye or nose.

#5: How can you prevent it?

Sadly, right now, there is no vaccine available to protect us against this family of viruses. But, vaccine trials are on the way.

We can still take some precautions to save ourselves and our family from this deadly virus infection:

1. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
2. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
3. If you are sick, please stay home and avoid crowds and contact with others.
4. When you cough or sneeze, please cover your mouth and nose.
5. Use disinfectant to clean the objects and surfaces that you touch.

#6 Is there any treatment if one suffers from Coronavirus infection?

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for this virus. But, doctors can definitely prescribe medicine to ease the symptoms.

According to CDC, you can still do the following things to ease the symptoms:

1. Use room humidifier to seek some comfort from a sore throat or a cough
2. Take a hot shower to help with a sore throat or a cough
3. Drink plenty of fluids
4. Don’t exert yourself. Take rest and sleep as much as possible.

At IFORHER, we request you to take all the necessary precautions, stay alert and spread the word!