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How to Prevent Getting Coronavirus?

Coronavirus Infection has been prevalent since then 1960s. This is a relatively benign viral infection that causes cough, fever, and sore throat. In some severe conditions, they can cause breathing problems. Among the various complications that can arise from Coronavirus, SARS and MERS are the most common. Till late 2019, there were only five strains of coronavirus identified. However, in late December of 2019 a sixth strain of this virus has come into existence and has proven to be the deadliest of them all.

This has been termed as Covid-19 or 2019-nCoV. This strain of coronavirus spreads from one human to another very quickly and the nature of the infection is such that within a week the symptoms start to worsen and the individual eventually succumbs to it in a matter of a few weeks.[1]

The Covid-19 or 2019-nCoV was first identified in people living in Wuhan province of China. It is believed to spread from cattle like pigs, cows, and birds. Majority of the deaths caused by the latest coronavirus has been due to upper respiratory distress. The virus may infect an individual without the individual even realizing it and starts to show its effect within a matter of hours to days.[1]

On average, the incubation period for the novel coronavirus is around 5 days with onset of symptoms in a week. This makes it vitally important to firstly have knowledge of the symptoms and secondly ways to avoid exposure to the virus.[1]

How to Prevent Getting Coronavirus?

As of now, there is no vaccine that protects an individual from getting infected with Coronavirus. Therefore, the best way to protect the body from getting infected with Covid-19 is to avoid visiting the infected areas/countries, especially China. Additionally, according to the Center for Disease Control, there are certain guidelines issued especially for people living in the Wuhan province of China or other areas where the infection has spread to. These simple things include:[2]

How to Prevent Getting Coronavirus?

It is recommended to wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 10-15 seconds or use a hand sanitizer as much as possible, especially when venturing out.

One of the most common entry points for the coronavirus is through the eyes, nose, and mouth. Thus the CDC recommends avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands to prevent the coronavirus from entering the body.

It is best to avoid coming in contact with people who have been confirmed to have the Covid-19 or 2019-nCoV infection. If it is not possible to avoid being close to an infected individual then it is recommended to wear a facemask and gloves and try and avoid touching the patient.

The best way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus infection is by quarantining the patient. This is perhaps the best way to prevent the spread of the infection.
If you have a cough or cold and have bouts of coughing and sneezing then this should be done with a tissue covered on the face and nose and then throwing it off in a trashcan.

It is also quite important to clean the frequently touched objects like utensils and furniture and disinfect it as the virus can survive on these surfaces and infect people.[2]
The following additional precautions should be taken:

  • It is best to avoid contact with people who show even slightest of symptoms like a cough or a cold, as that individual may be infected
  • If an individual has an underlying history of other medical conditions or has a compromised immune system then it is best to avoid going to China or contact the healthcare provider so as to get knowledge as to what precautions that need to be taken to prevent contracting coronavirus since such individuals can have extremely serious complications due to the infection.
  • While traveling in the virus infected areas, avoid traveling to animal markets and avoid any contact with uncooked meat

In case if an individual has been to China or other countries where coronavirus has been widespread recently and has symptoms of cough, cold, and flu like symptoms then he or she should go to the nearest emergency room to get checked for the coronavirus and if proven should be quarantined immediately to prevent the spread of the infection to newer areas and countries.[2]

As of March 17, 2020, there is no cure for Coronavirus or Covid-19 infection. Treatment is normally supportive to help calm down the symptoms. In severe cases, the patient will require aggressive treatment to prevent the vital organs of the body to get affected. It is vital for people to identify the symptoms and seek immediate treatment if anyone suspects to have contracted the coronavirus.[2]

References:

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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:March 18, 2020

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