Coronavirus refers to a virus that is named after the crown-like spikes it has on its surface. There are seven coronaviruses which can infect people, including:
- MERS–CoV (also known as Middle East Respiratory syndrome or MERS)
- SARS/CoV (severe acute respir syndrome or SARS)
- 2019 Novel Coronavirus (commonly known as COVID-19).
Runny nose, fever and cough are common symptoms. However, severe strains can lead to pneumonia and other serious conditions. For more information, please refer to the symptoms section.
In the past 20 years, there have been several coronavirus epidemics. These include:
- SARS CoV – The first case of SARS was reported in February 2003. SARS spread to more than 20 countries before it was finally contained. Since 2004, no cases have been reported.
- MERS – Primarily located in the Middle East, particularly around the Arabian Peninsula. MERS was first discovered in 2012. Worldwide, isolated cases of MERS related to travel have been reported since then, even in Canada and the United States. Transmission can be caused by contact with animals, particularly camels.
- COVID-19 This virus was discovered in Wuhan Province, China. It has caused 115 million cases of the disease and 2.5 million deaths worldwide.
Are There Any Concerns About Coronaviruses?
- You can breathe by sneezing or coughing
- Personal contact like shaking hands
- Before washing your hands, touch an object with the virus and then touch eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Fecal contamination can occur in rare cases
Infected children younger than 5 years old are more likely to become ill. Young children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk.
What are the symptoms of a Coronavirus infection?
The symptoms of coronaviruses may vary from strain to strain. The most common symptoms of coronaviruses are fever, dry cough and mild breathing difficulties.
You may experience more severe symptoms, such as high fever and pneumonia or kidney failure. Severe symptoms are rare and only a small proportion of cases.
COVID-19, the most prevalent coronavirus currently in existence, is COVID-19. MERS and other viruses are more common in travelers who travel to areas where the virus is prevalent.
How is a Coronavirus treated?
At this moment, there is no coronavirus treatment. Most people who are infected will be able to recover on their own. There are however some ways to minimize symptoms.
- Pain relief
- Humidifiers (to relieve sore throat and stuffy nose)
- Hydration is key
- Relaxing at home
For more severe symptoms like pneumonia, you may need to seek out more specialist care. Contact a primary care doctor if you suspect you may have coronavirus symptoms.
Are Coronaviruses found in the following locations?
COVID-19 can be found worldwide. To prevent its spread, it is important to take precautions such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and vaccination.
There is a risk from other coronaviruses in certain regions. MERS is a common disease in the Middle East. However, it has been reported in isolated areas in the United Kingdom and South Korea.
What should I do if I travel to a region with Coronavirus?
COVID-19 has been restricted in several countries to protect people from the virus. These include proof of negative testing at entry, entry restrictions, and soon, vaccination requirements.
Other coronaviruses are not currently under restriction. Travelers are advised to be cautious if they travel to areas contaminated by viruses. These precautions include:
- Avoid contact with sick people
- Avoid animals, animal markets, and uncooked animal products
- Use soap and water to wash your hands frequently. Hand sanitizers can also be used
Before traveling to any region with coronavirus, it is important that older people and those with compromised immune systems consult their healthcare provider.
Many countries have health screening checks in place to determine if people traveling from infected regions might be infected.
How can I prevent Coronavirus Infection at My Home?
Immunization is the best protection against COVID-19. To prevent further spread of the virus, the CDC recommends the following steps even after vaccination:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water, for at least 20 seconds
- Do not touch your eyes, mouth, or face.
- Avoid public places and contact with infected people.
- Wear a mask/shield that covers your nose and mouth when you go outside the house
- Sanitize high-touch items like mobile phones, doorknobs, and light switches regularly.
The CDC provides more information about COVID-19 prevention.
This post was written by a medical professional at The Wellness Firm. The Wellness Firm services include workplace flu clinics, wholesale rapid antigen test, onsite event Covid testing, physical exams for employment, as well as American Heart Association CPR certification classes. Founded by local Firemen, The Wellness Firm has been providing a safer Tampa Bay since 2006.