Coronavirus: How to Protect Yourself as the Outbreak Spreads
As the novel coronavirus continues to spread globally, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring the outbreak a pandemic, it’s crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of infection.
What is the Coronavirus?
The coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a new strain of coronavirus. It was first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and has since spread to over 100 countries, infecting millions of people worldwide.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
The symptoms of coronavirus are similar to those of the common cold or flu, including:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
How to Protect Yourself
While there is no vaccine available yet, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection:
- Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Use Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid Close Contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick, including touching, shaking hands, or sharing food and drinks.
- Cover Your Mouth and Nose: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of the tissue properly.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are common entry points for the virus.
- Stay Home If You’re Sick: If you’re feeling unwell, stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others.
- Clean and Disinfect: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remotes.
Image: A graphic illustrating the steps to protect yourself from coronavirus, including washing your hands, using hand sanitizer, avoiding close contact, covering your mouth and nose, avoiding touching your face, staying home if you’re sick, and cleaning and disinfecting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a vaccine available for coronavirus?
A: No, there is no vaccine available yet. However, several vaccines are in development and are expected to be available in the coming months.
Q: How do I know if I have coronavirus?
A: If you’re experiencing symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider, who will perform a physical examination and may conduct a laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis.
Q: Can I get coronavirus from a pet?
A: There is no evidence that pets can transmit coronavirus to humans.
Q: Can I get coronavirus from a contaminated surface?
A: Yes, the virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, so it’s essential to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Q: How long does it take for symptoms to appear after infection?
A: The incubation period for coronavirus is typically 2-14 days, but it can range from 1-24 days.
Q: Is there a cure for coronavirus?
A: There is no cure for coronavirus, but treatment is available to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Stay informed, stay safe, and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the spread of coronavirus.
