A family of viruses causing a wide range of illnesses in humans including cold or severe forms like MERS or SARS which tend to be life-threatening is known as corona virus. This virus is named corona due to its shape like a crown. The outbreak in recent times occurred in a market dealing in wildlife in the city of Wuhan in China. This has now been declared as a ‘pandemic’ and has affected almost all the countries globally. It is important to understand ‘what is corona virus ‘before proceeding further to the symptoms and the precautions.
Symptoms of Covid-19:
The symptoms are different in different individuals and there are cases which are asymptomatic, means, there are no symptoms of the corona virus at all. If not treated on time, this disease can also be fatal.
- a runny nose
- sore throat
- fever
- fatigue
- sneezing or
- exacerbated asthma
Are some of the common symptoms of this infection.
Types of Corona Virus:
There are different types of covid-19 in humans and this varies in accordance to the severity of the disease. At present there are seven types of corona viruses recognized by the doctors. These are
- OC43 (beta covid-19)
- 29E (alpha corona virus)
- NL63 (alpha corona virus)
- HKU1 (beta corona virus)
The MERS-CoV is a rare strain of the virus which causes MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS – CoV, which causes SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
Transmission of the Corona Virus:
The transmission of COVID – 19 (corona virus) is through droplets. That is, when a person has a respiratory problem and is in close contact with another individual, there are chances of an infection. This virus is also transmitted shaking hands or touching a person who has the virus, making contact with an object or surface that has the virus and then touching the mouth, nose or, eyes.
To prevent the transmission of this virus, it is important to stay at home and take the required rest when the symptoms are active. You need to cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing. This needs to be done with a tissue and the tissue has to be disposed of later.
SARS:
SARS is a disease which develops after an individual has contacted the corona virus. This can lead to pneumonia and is definitely life-threatening. This can infect the upper and the lower respiratory tract.
The early symptoms of SARS are
- chills
- Diarrhea
- aches
- breathlessness
- dry cough
MERS:
The MERS – CoV causes MERS. The symptoms of MERS include
- fever
- Cough
- breathlessness
It is important to follow the guidelines given by the health authorities to save yourself from the risk of this covid-19. Washing hands frequently with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds and staying indoors can help. Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose and, eyes. If you are going through a fever or have a cough it is important to call the helpline number. You not only save yourself but also save other people by taking the precautions advised.
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