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coronavirus

Coronavirus: infection, treatment, side effects, ppe, prevention

Coronavirus: infection, treatment, side effects, ppe, prevention

Coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause various illnesses, including the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). The most recent strain of coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, is the virus responsible for the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It is believed to have originated from an animal source, from a market in Wuhan, China.

Infection: The novel coronavirus is spread from person-to-person, primarily through respiratory droplets from an infected individual when they talk, sneeze, or cough. Additionally, the virus can be spread by contacting an infected surface or object and touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Side effects: The most common symptoms and side effects of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, tiredness, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms may include aches and pains, nasal congestion, headache, and sore throat. The virus can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death in more severe cases.

Treatment: There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine available for coronavirus. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and supporting the patient's immune system. Treatment may include medications to reduce fever, pain and coughing and oxygen therapy for those experiencing difficulty breathing.

Prevention: The best way to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus is to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Additionally, it is important to practice social distancing and to stay home if you are feeling unwell.

PPE: The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is an important strategy for preventing the spread of COVID-19. PPE such as face masks, gloves, and eye protection should be worn by healthcare workers, first responders, and anyone who is in contact with an infected individual.

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References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
  • World Health Organization. (2020). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). How to Protect Yourself & Others. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html