Coronavirus (COVID-19) : Symptoms,causes and prevention

Coronavirus is a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

In 2019,coronavirus was identified as the cause of a disease outbreak that originated in China.

The diseases is called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

Public health groups, have also issued recommendations for preventing and treating the illness.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appears 2 to 14 days after exposure and can include

Fever
Dry cough
Difficulty breathing

Other symptoms can include:

Fatigue
Aches
Runny nose
Sore throat
Headache
Diarrhea
Vomiting

The severity of coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms can range from very mild to severe. Some people may have no symptoms at all. People who are older or who have chronic medical conditions, such as heart diseases, lung diseases or diabetes, or who have compromised immune systems may be at higher risk of serious illness.

Causes:

Infection with the new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

It is unclear exactly how epidemic the new coronavirus is. Data has shown that this disease spreads from person to person among those in close contact . The virus spreads by respiratory droplets released when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes touch or talks.

It can also spread if a person touches a surface with the virus on it and then touches his/her mouth, eyes or nose.

Complications:

Although most people the with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms, the disease can cause of severe medical complications and lead to death in some people. Older adults and people with existing chronic medical conditions are at greater risk of becoming seriously sick with COVID-19.

Complications can include:

Pneumonia in both lungs
Organ failure in several organs

Prevention:

Although there is no vaccine available to prevent this infection with the new coronavirus, you can take steps to reduce your risk of contagion.

World Health Organization and CDC recommend following precautions for avoiding COVID-19

Avoid large events and mass gatherings.
Avoid close contact (within about 6 feet, 2 meters) with anyone who is sick or has any symptoms.
Keep distance between yourself and others if COVID-19 is spreading in your community, especially if you have a higher risk of serious illness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away the used tissue.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, and other household items if you're sick.
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily.
Stay home and work from home, school and public areas if you're sick, unless you're going to get medical care.
Avoid taking public transportation if you are infected.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the US agency recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public places, such as the grocery store, where it's difficult to avoid close contact with others. It's especially suggested in areas with ongoing community spread.. Using masks in public may help reduce the spread from people who don't have symptoms.

If you have any chronic medical condition and may have a higher risk of serious illness, check doctor about other ways to protect yourself.