COVID-19 OVERVIEW
COVID-19 is an infectious disease originating in Wuhan, China. The original host is believed to be bats that passed the virus on to chickens and other live products sold in the markets of Wuhan. This has escalated to over 145,000 cases worldwide which have yielded a death toll of over 5,500. The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus to be a national pandemic on March 11, 2020.
SYMPTOMS
The effects of the coronavirus range from mild symptoms to severe illnesses and even death in certain cases. The following symptoms occur 2-14 days after the contraction of the virus.
Fever
Runny nose
Cough
Sore throat
Trouble breathing (severe cases)
The elderly and those with respiratory issues are more susceptible to the aforementioned symptoms.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
Although there are no known vaccines to treat COVID-19, there are various safety precautions that can be taken to prevent its spread.
Wash hands regularly with soap and water
Apply hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol
Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or elbow
Refrain from touching your face with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact (6 feet) with those who may be sick
Regular hand washing is widely regarded the most effective preventative measure.
HOW IT'S SPREAD
The virus is spread from person-to-person by respiratory droplets produced when one sneezes or coughs. When others come in contact with these droplets left behind on surfaces, they contract it as well and continue the cycle. The virus is caught when these droplets come in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth by means of an infected hand.