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Coronavirus Outbreak – Things You Didn’t Know!

  

The coronavirus menace has reached India. The viral infection became an epidemic in December 2019 as it spread from the Chinese city of Wuhan to most parts of the globe. And for quite some time, India had been able to evade this disease. But eventually, our luck ran out.

The coronavirus case count is increasing steadily with new cases being reported every day. Now, more than ever, it is important for people to form a clear idea of the coronavirus disease. Only when we are armed with knowledge can we save ourselves and prevent further escalation of this health emergency.

A)   What is coronavirus?

Today the whole world is talking about coronavirus. We know that it can be lethal and it is highly contagious. But what is it exactly? As the name suggests, it is a type of virus that looks like a crown under the microscope.

There are several strains of this virus known to scientists. Many strains exist in animals without affecting humans. Coronavirus belongs to the same family of viruses as the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory System). The strain that originated in China and has caused so many deaths is called the COVID-19.    

Scientists do not know how the COVID-19 first affected humans. Neither do they know exactly where in Wuhan the virus struck. Many believe that the outbreak can be traced to a seafood market. But later research found that the first person who contracted COVID-19 (patient Zero) had not consumed seafood purchased from that market.

This new strain of coronavirus has an incubation period of 14 days, which is why it takes 10-14 days from the time of exposure to the virus for symptoms to show up.

B)   How would you know that you have contracted coronavirus?

It is extremely important that everyone learns to identify the symptoms of coronavirus. And remembering them isn’t difficult because coronavirus symptoms are the same as those of the flu.

You may have developed coronavirus infection if you notice these symptoms-

  1. Sore, itchy or swollen throat
  2. Coughing and sneezing      
  3. Fever
  4. Headache and muscle pain that accompanies fever
  5. Breathing difficulty
  6. Runny nose

    There are a few risk factors of coronavirus-

  1. Having travelled to or lived in countries that have reported coronavirus outbreaks.
  2. Being elderly.
  3. Having a history of heart problems and diabetes.

C)   How will you confirm if you have coronavirus?

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, do not waste time and visit your doctor immediately. Do not pass them off as signs of the common cold because coronavirus is here in India and your timely action can keep not just you but also everyone you come in contact with safe.

You will be recommended a blood test by the doctor. If the lab test finds traces of coronavirus in your sample, then it will be confirmed that you have the disease. You will then be put under treatment and quarantined so that you do not spread the disease to others by coughing or sneezing.

D)   Treatment of coronavirus

At present, no vaccine or medicine can prevent or cure coronavirus. People who have tested positive are kept under observation. Treatment involves managing the symptoms of the viral infection such as taking medicines that help with coughing, nasal blockage, pain and sore throat.

  If the disease progresses to pneumonia, medicines that can cure it are administered. Patients have to drink lots of fluids and eat healthily. They will be discharged as soon as the symptoms dissipate and tests reveal that the virus is no longer present in their bodies.

E)   Coronavirus Dos and Don’ts

To help curb the coronavirus pandemic, here is a list of dos and don’ts that we must all observe –

Dos

  1. Do wash your hands with soap and water or alcoholic hand sanitiser frequently, especially if you are using public facilities like transportation and washrooms.
  2. Do avoid contact with anyone who looks sick.
  3. Do use a disposable napkin or a handkerchief to cover your face when you cough or sneeze.

Don’ts

  1. Don’t be part of a large gathering. If you are within just a few feet of an infected person, you could contract the virus.
  2. Don’t touch your face, nose, mouth or eyes with unwashed hands.
  3. Don’t hide your symptoms for fear of being quarantined.
  4. Don’t travel abroad especially to countries that are reeling under the coronavirus outbreak.

Coronavirus is wreaking havoc globally. But you can stop it in its tracks if you follow the precautions strictly. So observe personal hygiene and request your loved ones to do the same to stay safe and protected.

masks, sanitizers

(Available in select cities only – Mumbai, Gurgaon, Bangalore, Jaipur, Hyderabad)

Also, you can assess yourself and your loved ones at home with –

PharmEasy’s AI-Powered Bot – Covid Assist

Do you feel like you may have the symptoms of Coronavirus? You can now book the Coronavirus Detection Test right from the comforts of your home. Click below.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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Coronavirus Outbreak – The Latest From Around The World!

The coronavirus epidemic, which began to make headlines in January 2020, has since then claimed more than 2000 lives in China. Globally, 80,155 people have been affected by it ever since. The whole world is worried because we still haven’t come up with a way to halt its progress.

Here are a few things that are known about coronavirus:

masks, sanitizers

(Available in select cities only – Mumbai, Gurgaon, Bangalore, Jaipur, Hyderabad)

What is the situation like in India?

Is India immune to the coronavirus risk? No. Since we have trade relations with China and many people travel back and forth from China both for business and travel, the possibility of a coronavirus outbreak in India is very much possible.

Neurological symptoms or mental health conditions, including difficulty thinking or concentrating, headache, sleep problems, dizziness when you stand, pins-and-needles feeling, loss of smell or taste, and depression or anxiety are some of the common symptoms that can be seen in covid, mental health amongst these is often neglected.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Here a few updates:

What should you do if you are travelling abroad?

We do not know when this outbreak will die down. Does that mean you cannot travel abroad? Of course not! If you are planning on going abroad, you have to adopt a few precautionary measures to be absolutely safe.

In-Blog

Here are a few things you must do:

  1. Wear coronavirus masks if you are going to a country where people have been infected with this virus. These masks can filter the air you are breathing in and thus stop the virus that causes this infection.
  2. Simply keeping your hands clean can minimize your risk of getting a coronavirus infection. Infected people leave behind viruses on things they touch. And if you touch that, you can be infected. For example, bus handrails, toilet doorknobs, door handles, overhead luggage compartments of aeroplanes are things that hundreds of people touch every day. So if you are using public transport or restroom or if you are on a plane, please wash your hands with soap and water. Carry hand sanitizer with you always.
  3. Always wash your hands before you consume a meal.
  4. Do not touch your face, mouth, nose or eyes with unwashed hands.
  5. Try to keep your distance from people who are sick.
  6. Do you have a weak immunity?   If so, strengthen it first before you head to foreign shores. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. They contain antioxidants that bolster your defence. Drink lukewarm water with lemon juice daily to strengthen immunity.
  7. Ask your doctor to administer a flu shot. It may not stop coronavirus but it will definitely reduce the risk of contracting it.
  8. If you witness symptoms like fever, runny nose, coughing and headache, consult your nearest health expert.

Every one of us needs to be cautious. If we all adopt precautionary measures, then we can stop the transmission of coronavirus and keep our loved ones and ourselves safe & protected!

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

Coronavirus – Is The Threat Bigger Than Before?

The Coronavirus outbreak is now a global epidemic. Everyone, starting from everyday people like us to government officials, healthcare experts and international organizations like the Centre of Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are worried about how to check this threat.

Coronavirus – updates from around the world

COVID -19 as a disaster of the 21st century seems harm all of as for a while more as new variants keep emerging. Though it can affect all ages, the elderly and children are the most vulnerable group. Despite many of drugs has been speculated as a treatment agent, only vaccines are effective modality.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Which countries have been affected by Coronavirus?

22 countries have been affected by the coronavirus. They are:

  1. Japan
  2. Singapore
  3. Thailand
  4. Hong Kong
  5. South Korea 
  6. Taiwan 
  7. Malaysia
  8. Vietnam
  9. Philippines
  10. India
  11. Germany
  12. The USA
  13. The UK
  14. Italy 
  15. Russia
  16. Sri Lanka
  17. Spain
  18. Nepal
  19. Sweden
  20. Belgium 
  21. Finland 
  22. Cambodia 

Though adults are the most commonly affected group; it can also be seen in newborns and elderly patients. Unfortunately, elderly patients are the most vulnerable group with higher mortality. Elderly patients, smokers and patients with comorbid conditions are most affected by the disease.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

How is India dealing with Coronavirus?

Coronavirus causes 

Not much is known about how this condition is caused. It is believed that the virus originated from a wholesale meat/seafood market in China. The viruses can jump from one species to another and that is why humans have contracted the virus from animals.

What are the signs?

The signs are similar to that of the regular flu – runny nose, fever, coughing, body ache, sore throat and breathing difficulties.

The virus becomes deadly if it affects the lower respiratory system, as it can result in pneumonia.

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How can you protect yourself?

In this context, it is important to learn about coronavirus precautions. Here are a few things you must do:

  1. Keep a distance of at least 1 metre (3 feet) between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever. 
  2. Do not touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth.
  3. Cancel your travel plans to China.
  4. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub, after using anything that others have touched like handrails in trains/buses or public toilet utilities.
  5.  Avoid contact with animals, in case you did, immediately wash your hands with soap and water. 
  6.  Practice hygiene measures when you visit live animal markets, wet markets or animal product markets.
  7.  Do not consume raw or undercooked animal products.
  8. Wear an N95 mask. Do not touch the mask once you have worn it. If you feel you have symptoms of coronavirus, then see your doctor immediately.
  9.  Do not touch the mask once you have worn it. Also, discard it after one use and wash hands immediately. 
  10. In case of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, seek medical help and share previous travel history with a healthcare provider.
  11. Do not travel if you have a fever and cough. Also, eat only cooked food when travelling.

The number of coronavirus cases is rising with every passing day. Take all the precautions mentioned above to protect yourself from the coronavirus threat.

Assess Your Risk of COVID-19 with Coronavirus Risk Assessment Tool

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.