Coronavirus/ Covid19: What are the symptoms and when to see the doctor?
Schools /Colleges shut, empty malls & restaurants, silent roads! These are some of the major impacts Corona has brought all over the world.
Covid-19 or Coronavirus- the deadly virus has kept the whole world stranded. The illness which made Wuhan its epicenter in China has now made its presence all over the world. Covid-19 is a member of the coronavirus family and it has come from animals. WHO- World health organization has declared it a pandemic disease.
So before getting into further facts and details, it is important to understand what this virus is all about?
What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?
The person who is infected with this virus will initially get normal pneumonia-like symptoms which will be followed with coughs, fever and difficulty in breathing. As it is a viral pneumonia, hence antibiotics have not cured it so far. Recovery is completely dependent on strength as well as the immune system of the individual. Many of the individuals who have died of this virus were suffering from poor health or were old aged with severe health conditions.
Doctors have advised to take notice of the symptoms very seriously. Anyone who feels that he is suffering from persistent cough or high temperature should immediately get tested and avoid stepping outside or stay at home for 14 days. They should distance themselves from other people to avoid spreading it further.
Does this virus get transmitted from one person to another?
This virus does not get transmitted through air. China’s national health commission has confirmed in January that it involves human-to-human transmission. It only spreads when we cough or sneeze and the droplets fall on any object or other person.
How many people have been affected?
1,82,000 people have been infected as of 15th March in more than 80 countries. It has spread very quickly like forest fire and is still spreading.
- 7,500 people have lost their fight against this disease with more than 3000 in China.
- More than 79,000 people have been recovered from this virus.
Why is this virus worse than normal influenza?
One of the major reasons to worry is that this virus does not have a vaccine unlike the flu. Doctors are still working hard to find a cure for this deadly disease. It is hence more difficult for vulnerable members like elderly people or those with existing respiratory or immune problems to protect themselves.
It has been therefore advised to keep washing hands regularly and avoid going to public places. As we know, it has been declared as “Pandemic” by WHO and we are in a state of public health emergency. Hence, we should be proactive and should follow all necessary measures introduced by the Government and advised by doctors. So far more than 250 cases have been detected in Australia and fatalities have risen to 5.
This virus is closely related to SARS and in the same family of viruses as MERS. It has not been detected in humans before. It should be thoroughly noted that people with disabilities and the elderly as well as those with chronic health conditions are at greater risk.
Australian PM has introduced new measures which should be implemented to reduce it from further spreading. These include avoiding social contact and cancellation of the events which involves mass gathering of a crowd of more than 500 individuals. Strict rules are being implemented for self-isolation for any oversea arrivals, including Australians. Citizens have been advised to maintain social distance which is currently very important.
- Social Distancing
It involves ways to stop the spread of infectious diseases. It means not shaking hands, not hugging or kissing, limiting outside visits to places like gym, malls, offices.
Due to the panic and shortage of resources, Australian government is trying its level best to ease out the situation. They have introduced drastic measures which involves dedicated early morning shopping for elderly and specially abled, and limitation on per transactions. The situation is intensifying everyday and it has now become severe in Italy and many other European countries. It is always better to stay informed and keep check of cleanliness around.
- Stimulus Package
Many more stimulus packages may be considered and announced over the coming months. Currently, a one-off payment of $750 for approx 6.5 million Australians have been introduced. It includes and covers for ones who receive the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment and Carer Allowance as well as the Family Tax Benefit and many other welfare payments.
Australian Government is doing exceptionally well and is trying its best to bring out necessary solutions to meet the current needs. We all should cooperate and support the initiatives.
Don’t worry as this time shall pass soon and the Australian Government has designed a Coronavirus Emergency Response Plan. NDIA is already taking the necessary actions to meet unexpected emergencies.
At Star Community Care, we are always there to assist you whenever you need any help. We pray for everyone’s well being.
