Overview

Coronaviruses are the viruses which are the cause of illnesses like the common cold, SARS and MERS. In 2019, a new type of coronavirus was identified in China, causing a disease outbreak.

The virus is now named as SARS-COV-2. The disease it causes is called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

In over 100 countries cases of COVID-19 have been reported. Public health organizations, including World Health Organization, are closely monitoring the outbreak and informing people of the world on their websites. They also release public recommendations for preventing and treating the illness.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Coronavirus Disease-19 may appear 2-14 days after exposure. They include:

Fever

Cough

Difficulty in breathing/Shortness of breath

The severity of the symptoms mentioned above may range from mild to severe. Old people or people with heart diseases etc. are at higher risk of serious illness. This case is the same for other respiratory illnesses like influenza.

When should you see a doctor?

If you have coronavirus symptoms and you think you have been exposed to the virus, contact your doctor immediately. Inform your doctor if you have been travelling internationally lately. Before going to your doctor’s appointment, call her to tell about your symptoms, recent travels and possible exposure.

Causes

The scientists have yet to find out how contagious the new coronavirus is. It seems that it spreads from person to person if they contact closely. It spreads by respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

Risk factors

Risk factors for COVID-19 may include:

Travelling to or residing in an area where there is an ongoing spread of COVID-19.

Contacting with a person infected with the virus.

Prevention

Currently there are no vaccines available for preventing the infection caused by the new coronavirus. Yet you can take measures to reduce risk of infection. WHO recommends the following for avoiding all respiratory diseases:

Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean.

Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.

Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you're sick.

Clean and disinfect surfaces you often touch.

Stay home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.

Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or animal organs.

Avoid contact with live animals and surfaces they may have touched if you're visiting live markets in areas that have recently had new coronavirus cases.