Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.” This means that, in general, the human population has no acquired immunity to the new coronavirus and while most people who contract the virus will experience no or mild symptoms, some people will develop severe or even life-threatening symptoms.
The coronavirus — labeled as COVID-19 by WHO — was first identified in the city of Wuhan in the Hubei province of China in December. Since it first emerged in China, COVID-19 has spread around the world and has now been identified in at least 157 countries. Researchers suspect the virus originated in an animal population – likely bats – and was transferred to humans via a secondary source. Symptoms include respiratory issues, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and can even be fatal.
How can you prevent the spread of coronavirus and avoid infection? WHO recommends washing your hands regularly; covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing; and cooking meat and eggs thoroughly. Most officials are recommending that people with symptoms stay home and self-isolate to avoid spreading the virus to others. In many countries, governments and medical communities have advised all people – with or without symptoms – to stay home and avoid large gatherings to prevent the spread of the disease, and some countries are temporarily shutting down schools and universities, as well as other facilities and restricting travel.
These measures are part of a widespread effort to slow and reduce the spread of the virus so that healthcare systems can provide thorough treatment and allow researchers, medical professionals, and government officials time to develop treatments and implement public health protocols. To best “flatten the curve” — a graphical representation of reducing the exponential spread of the virus — officials are urging people to stay at home.
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