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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To help curb the coronavirus pandemic, here is a list of dos and don’ts that we must all observe –
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.
(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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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.
(Available in select cities only – Mumbai, Gurgaon, Bangalore, Jaipur, Hyderabad)
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.
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.
Here are a few things you must do:
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.
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.
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
22 countries have been affected by the coronavirus. They are:
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.
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.
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.
In this context, it is important to learn about coronavirus precautions. Here are a few things you must do:
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.