What Is Corona Virus Or COVID 19? Is It Dangerous?

With the going Pandemic of COVID 19, consumers are searching online sources for guidance on what they should do. However, not all information is based on sound science. The information void has led to the occurrence of misinformation, misperceptions and myths propagated by sources that lack the credibility to provide authoritative comment. 

1. About CORONA VIRUS
 Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans.  In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19. 

2.What is COVID 19?
COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. COVID-19 is now a pandemic affecting many countries globally.

 
3. How dangerous is COVID 19?
 Although for most people COVID-19 causes only mild illness, it can make some people very ill. More rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people, and those with pre- existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes) appear to be more vulnerable. 

4. What are its symptoms?
 A study into symptoms of 5,700 people with COVID-19 shows that many of the symptoms are common to people with both mild and severe disease. These common symptoms include fever and cough. However, some symptoms are much more common in people with severe disease. These include  shortness of breath,    difficulty breathing, muscle aches, chills, fatigue and sputum production.


5. How does it spread ?
  People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease spreads primarily from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled when a person with COVID-19 coughs, sneezes, or speaks. People can catch COVID-19 if they breathe in these droplets from a person infected with the virus.  This is why it is important to stay at least 1 meter away from others. These droplets can land on objects and surfaces around the person such as tables, doorknobs and handrails.  People can become infected by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.  This is why it is important to wash your hands regularly with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand rub.   
 
6. Can COVID 19 be caught from a person with no symptoms?
  Yes,  This is particularly true in the early stages of the disease. It is possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has just a mild cough and does not feel ill. 

7. What is the difference between self-isolation, self-quarantine and distancing?
    Quarantine means restricting activities or separating people who are not ill themselves but may have been exposed to COVID-19. The goal is to prevent spread of the disease at the time when people just develop symptoms.
    Isolation means separating people who are ill with symptoms of COVID-19 and may be infectious to prevent the spread of the disease. 
    Physical distancing means being physically apart. WHO recommends keeping at least 1-metre distance from others. This is a general measure that everyone should take even if they are well with no known exposure to COVID-19.

8. What are the safety measures ?
Social distancing, use of masks and sanitizers while going out, wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands .