What is a corona virus, its symptoms, its causes, diagnosis, prevention & treatment?

A corona virus is a virus that is found in animals. Sometimes these viruses can be transmitted from animals to humans, although it is rare. Officials do not know what animal caused the Wuhan corona virus, although the market it is linked to also sold wild animals, like snakes and crocodiles.

In addition to the Wuhan corona virus, other human corona viruses have included:

  • The MERS virus, or Middle East respiratory syndrome.
  • The SARS virus, or severe acute respiratory syndrome, which first occurred in the Guangdong province in southern China.

It is believed that both MERS and SARS are more serious than the Wuhan corona virus.

Symptoms

Unlike MERS and SARS, the Wuhan corona virus is usually fairly mild. It can take longer for symptoms to develop. Symptoms may include:

  • A mild cough.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • A runny nose.
  • A sore throat.
  • A headache.
  • A fever.

So far, only 15 to 20% of cases have become severe. Those with weakened immune systems may develop more serious symptoms, like pneumonia or bronchitis. So far, only people 40 years old and older have developed the Wuhan corona virus infection.

Causes

Humans first get a corona virus from contact with animals. Then, it can spread from human to human. Health officials do not know what animal caused the Wuhan corona virus.

The Wuhan corona virus can be spread when one human comes into contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, such as droplets in a cough. It might also be caused by touching something an infected person has touched and then touching your hand to your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Officials do not know who transmits the Wuhan corona virus most or where most infections occur.

How is a corona virus diagnosed?

If you believe you may have a corona virus, you should see your doctor immediately. Before just showing up to your doctor’s office, alert your doctor that you’re coming and why. This will allow the office to prepare and perhaps isolate patients to prevent the spread of infection. To diagnose you, your doctor will run tests to rule out other common infections.

Can a corona virus be prevented or avoided?

There are currently no vaccines for corona virus. Try to avoid people who are sick. Wash your hands often, and avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

If you are travelling to an area where the Wuhan corona virus is present, speak with your doctor first.

Corona virus treatment

  • Symptoms of a corona virus usually go away on their own. If symptoms feel worse than a common cold, see your doctor. He or she may prescribe pain or fever medication.
  • As with a cold, drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.
  • Living with a corona virus
  • If you have the Wuhan corona virus, your doctor will advise you to stay home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids. Symptoms will usually go away on their own.
  • When possible, avoid contact with others when you can to avoid getting them sick.

Is the virus being transmitted from one person to another?

China’s national health commission has confirmed human-to-human transmission, and there have been such transmissions elsewhere.

How many people have been affected?

As of 25 February, the outbreak has affected 80,000 people globally. In mainland China there have been 2,663 deaths among 77,658 cases, mostly in the central province of Hubei. More than 12,000 people affected in China have already recovered.

The corona virus has spread to at least other 30 other countries. The most badly affected include Japan, with 850 cases, including 691 from a cruise ship docked in Yokohama, and four deaths. Italy has recorded 229 cases and seven deaths, while South Korea has recorded 893 cases and eight deaths. There have also been deaths in Hong Kong, Taiwan, France, Iran and the Philippines.

 

Picture Credit : Google