The beginning of a new decade started off with several bangs that have had long-lasting effects on the whole world. The biggest world issue by far was the chaos that ensued when China alerted the World Health Organization (WHO) of several cases of an unknown virus in the city of Wuhan. In the beginning, no one knew how alarming or dangerous this virus could be and then it started to spread fast and far. Soon countries started to implement city lockdowns, quarantines, and social distancing to try to contain the virus.
But it couldn’t be stopped soon enough and the new coronavirus, COVID-19, became a global pandemic significantly impacting the way the world functioned from staying home to the fall of the economy. With such a largescale, unprecedented problem, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to behave in a virus-controlled climate. But luckily, this pandemic is happening during the age of the Internet and that brings live updates and professional advice.
What is Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are from a family of viruses that affect both humans and animals. They usually cause respiratory infections in people ranging from the common cold to MERS, SARS, and now COVID-19. The only difference with COVID-19 is that no vaccine has yet been developed.
The most obvious problem outside of not having a vaccine is that COVID-19 is extremely contagious and spreadable. The virus has been shown to live on surfaces for hours to a few days. It spreads from person to person through small droplets from the nose and mouth or touching affected surfaces and then touching their nose, mouth, and face. This means that every person you pass, every door handle you use, every button you press, could be a chance of catching the virus.
This is why social distancing practices must be vigorously followed to prevent a mass spread. It protects the people most vulnerable to the disease such as the elderly with pre-existing medical illnesses and also poses a risk to healthy adults and children. Many cases of COVID-19 are asymptomatic, but still contagious and should be contained.
What Are Coronavirus Symptoms?
Symptoms may start showing anywhere from 1 to 14 days for people sick with the virus. The most common coronavirus symptoms are:
- Fever
- Dry cough – not just a tickle, but bothersome and from the chest
- Fatigue
In severe cases, people have difficulty breathing. With ongoing research and study, medical professionals have determined more signs that you may have COVID-19, which include:
- Chills and body aches
- Sudden confusion
- Digestive problems
- Pink eye
- Loss of smell and taste
- Headache, sore throat, and congestion
Staying Healthy During the Pandemic
To do your part in flattening the curve, it’s important to follow social restrictions as difficult as it may be to stay in. You can find some relief in knowing that you’re protecting yourself and others from getting sick while you spend a lot more time with your family.
You just have to remember to:
- Wash your hands
- Stay healthy and active
- Stay positive
