Facts About Corona Virus by Dr Vikrant Shah, consulting physician, intensivist and infection disease specialist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital Chembur

The COVID-19 viral disease from China, now, has rapidly spread to more than 121,000 people from Asia, to Europe, the Middle East and now in parts of the United States. It is 0fficially a pandemic now, according to the World Health Organization. We brief you about the disease, the symptoms you MUST be watchful of, and we also dispel the myths surrounding it.

Coronaviruses (COV) can be described as a large family of viruses ,is basically a RNA virus and in past being responsible for illness ranging from the common cold to severe manifestations like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Moreover, a novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that hasn’t been previously identified in humans,it’s a zoonotic infection

How is this deadly virus transmitted?

Are you aware? Coronaviruses are transmitted between animals and humans. Yes, you have heard it right! Likewise, reportedly, several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.

All you need to know about the symptoms of coronavirus

One may exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough, and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, one may also suffer from pneumonia, severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, kidney failure, and even death. Thus, it is essential to protect yourself from this life-threatening coronavirus.

This is how you can prevent the virus from spreading to the other humans

• Maintain a proper hand and respiratory hygiene
• Follow the right-hand washing technique. Wet your hands and apply soap. Then, lather your hands by rubbing them together with the help of soap. After that, lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers and even, don’t forget your nails. Try to scrub for at least 15 seconds. Finally, rinse your hands and dry them with a clean fresh towel
• Cover your mouth while coughing and sneezing
• Avoid going to crowded places
• Do not come in contact with one who has a cold or cough
• Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is very helpful. Do not use it on wet hands.

Here, we also list out common myths and facts regarding coronavirus

Myth: Heat can kill coronavirus

Fact: This has not been proved yet. From the evidence so far, the virus can be transmitted in all areas, including the areas having hot and humid weather but temperatures above 30 degrees is not very favourable for a virus

Myth: Eating garlic can help prevent from coronavirus

Fact: Though, garlic has antimicrobial properties. There is no evidence available that suggests the prevention of coronavirus by eating garlic.

Myth: Kids cannot get coronavirus

Fact: Anyone irrespective of their age can get the coronavirus. Similarly, those people with pre-existing medical conditions appear to be more vulnerable to serious infections.

Myth: Coronavirus means death

Fact: There is no need to panic. One can take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves from this deadly virus.

A word of caution

• Reportedly, According to a study published in the Journal Of Hospital, the SARS coronavirus (Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus called SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) – at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degree Celcius) tends to last for 2 days on steel, 4 days on wood and glass, 5 days on metal, plastic, and ceramics.
• The virus can last for up to 96 hours at room temperature on the screen of your Smartphone and on the plastered wall for 36 hours. We pick the phone and place it on the ear and it touches the face and transmits the viruses. Alcohol wipes should be sued to clean the glass of the phone. Turn off your phone and clean it with a microfiber cloth.

Warning: Right since the outbreak of coronavirus, rumours, and misinformation about it have been spreading at a rapid rate more than the virus is. It is suggested to be cautious, and do not rely on the information available on social media or opt for any sort of home remedies. If you have a cough or cold then seek immediate medical attention.