With a sharp rise in Covid-19 infections and deaths globally, the mode of transmission and precautions to minimise the spread of the disease need serious consideration. Earlier, the primary route of transmission of the virus was considered to be through larger respiratory droplets and direct contact with the infected people or surfaces. However, the recent surge in the cases is severe and researchers are speculating the chances of another mode of transmission, which involves inhalation of the airborne particles.
Preventive and control measures are necessary to stop the spread of infection. The current knowledge about the transmission points towards the airborne transmission of the virus through an aerosol generated from an infected person. When the patient exhales or sneezes or coughs, the virus in the aerosol may stay in the air for a long time. Here, we discuss the various modes of transmission of COVID-19 and the proper steps to minimise them, especially the indoor transmission of the virus.
While the COVID-19 infection affects your respiratory system causing severe illness and sometimes even death, some people might be asymptomatic after getting infected. The possible modes of transmission as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) are as follows:
The virus spreads through the air in the form of aerosolised infected particles, generated by an infected individual or during medical procedures and affects individuals coming in contact with these particles. Here, the particles are smaller than 5 μm in diameter, can remain in the air for long periods and transmitted to others over distances greater than 1m.
Appropriate measures include sufficient and effective ventilation, possibly enhanced by particle filtration and air disinfection, avoiding air recirculation and avoiding overcrowding.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
When a person gets infected with the SARS CoV-2 virus, it makes its presence in the saliva and other respiratory secretions or droplets expelled out through coughing, sneezing, talking or singing. Suppose a healthy person comes in contact with the infected person; the virus from the respiratory droplet may reach the nose, mouth or eyes of the healthy person in the vicinity, thereby spreading the infection. Droplet transmission occurs when a person is in close contact, within 1 meter of the infected person.
The respiratory secretions or droplets may fall on the surfaces and contaminate them. If a healthy person touches this surface and then touches his/her mouth or nose, there are chances of infection. Although few reports suggest this type of transmission in hospitals or healthcare facilities treating COVID-19 patients, there is a possibility of a high viral load on the table surfaces, doorknobs, stethoscopes, etc.
Although there are reports of the SARS CoV-2 virus in stool, urine, blood and plasma samples, there is no substantial evidence to support the fecal-oral, urine, blood or mother-fetus transmission.
Transmission of the COVID-19 virus can occur by direct contact with infected people and indirect contact with surfaces in the immediate environment or with objects used on the infected person (e.g., stethoscope or thermometer), endotracheal intubation, bronchoscopy, open suctioning, administration of nebulized treatment, etc. are commonly implicated in the causation of airborne transmission.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
An infected person can generate aerosolised droplets nuclei that measure less than 5 µm in size in the air, during talking or exhaling. If healthy people come in contact with the aerosolised particles with a high viral load, they may get infected by inhaling the nuclei directly into the lungs. Furthermore, the aerosolised nuclei may remain suspended for an extended time in the air owing to their small size. However, in droplet transmission, the droplets generated are typically between 5-10 µm in size and can affect an individual only in a close radius of the infected person.
Several reports show indoor transmission of Covid-19 through the aerosolised droplets of sub-micron size present in the air.
The environmental conditions affect the viability and infectivity of the virus. Indoor transmission occurs in closed places such as daycare centres, universities, schools, offices or hospitals, where people spend longer durations in close contact with each other. On the other hand, the outdoor risks of transmission include viral load in the particulate air and wastewater system. In the outdoors, the virus may remain viable for hours and days on the surface. Although both environments pose a risk for transmission of COVID-19, indoor transmissions are considered more risky than outdoor due to the chances of crowding in a limited space and poor ventilation.
The indoor transmission of Covid-19 is reported in some research studies. Here are a few findings:
Research further shows that certain factors may increase the indoor spread of the COVID-19 infection:
To reduce the transmission of COVID-19, the following actions are suggested:
Follow hygiene practices such as healthy and safe disposal of PPE kits and waste management. If indoor environmental control recommendations are followed strictly, coronavirus transmission rates can be drastically minimised. In addition to the air control and ventilation measures, people must follow some essential hygiene etiquettes.
Maintenance of proper physical distance and personal hygiene and use of masks is a must. When coughing or sneezing, one must cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper, which should be properly disposed of after use. In absence of tissue paper or handkerchief, one should cough or sneeze into one’s elbow, not hands.
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
In the year 2020, the whole world witnessed the onslaught of the deadly Covid-19. The first Covid-19 case was reported in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. This virus soon made its way around the world and by January 2020, countries such as India, Russia and the United Kingdom had begun fighting this coronavirus.
On July 17th 2020, India saw the highest death count so far which was around 2000 deaths a day. Wearing a mask, imposing lockdowns and curfews helped to reduce the spread of the virus. However, about seven months after the first wave, India experienced the second wave of Covid-19.
The Covid-19 cases started to increase rapidly from March 2021. India recorded the lowest number of new cases in that month on April 22nd, with around three lakh cases per day. On May 6th, 2021, India registered 4,14,188 new cases, the highest number of cases ever recorded. From May 9th onwards, India started seeing a steady decline in Covid-19 cases across the country. Due to government impositions and people’s vigilance, India slowly and steadily is recovering from Covid-19.
With the help of medical facilities and doctors, vaccines for this deadly virus were developed. To date, India has administered 187 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. So far, 3.1% of the total population of India, that is, 41,686,052 citizens, have been fully vaccinated.
Safe and effective vaccines help ensure that COVID-19 does not result in severe disease and death, especially in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. Vaccination protects against COVID-19 and reduces the likelihood of new variants from emerging.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
In the initial days of the pandemic, the spread of the Covid-19 virus in India was low. But due its high transmissibility, it spread like wildfire, infecting millions of people in the country. Because the outbreak of Covid-19 in India was an unexpected and unfortunate occurrence, India was unprepared. Every individual was affected by the ongoing pandemic.
In India, Covid-19 has had a major impact on the following:
From the smallest state to the largest, all the states of India are still fighting against Covid-19. The worst affected states include Tamil Nadu with 1,842,344 active cases, Maharashtra with 5,579,897 active cases and Karnataka with 2,424,904 active cases and Kerala with 2,347,966 active cases.
Covid-19, termed SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), affects a person’s lungs and respiratory system. In the first wave of Covid-19, the country was able to manage with its existing supply of oxygen and oxygen concentrators. However, when the second wave of Covid-19 came out of nowhere, the number of infected people skyrocketed, resulting in a surge in demand for medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen cylinders and ICU beds. At that point, India was not prepared and could not keep up with the rising cases, which led to the collapse of medical facilities.
India was faced with a shortage of the most basic medical facilities. With the help of medical aid, doctors and frontline workers, the government arranged oxygen cylinders and concentrators. Many other countries like Russia, UK and Malaysia helped India during the crisis by supplying oxygen and ventilators by air. So far, 11,058 oxygen concentrators, 13,496 oxygen cylinders and 19 oxygen generation plants have been set up to overcome the oxygen crisis in India.
About 7,365 ventilators and five lakhs vials of life-saving medicines are being made to meet demand and are supplied to patients or hospitals by air or roadways as early as possible.
Though the second wave of Covid-19 was unpredictable, India was aware of how to combat the situation. Imposition of lockdowns and curfews proved to be effective in curbing the spread of Covid-19. After three months of the arrival of the second wave of Covid-19, India’s recovery is visible and gradual. The National Recovery Rate has increased to 87.76% from 81. 77%. Vaccination administered in India exceeded 20 cores under Phase 3 of the vaccination drive in the country. To date, around 10 million healthcare and frontline workers working as warriors against Covid-19 have been vaccinated. For over a week consecutively, more than 20 lakhs tests have been conducted in India.
As active cases are gradually decreasing, the recovery rate is increasing, which means reduced death tolls. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are the fastest recovering states. Restrictions have also been normalized to some extent. Restaurants, malls and offices are slowly being reopened with some restrictions.
Though there is a decline in the number of active Covid-19 cases in India, the pandemic is still not over; not until 244 districts with more than 20% positivity rate and 479 districts crossing the 10% positivity rate meet WHO’s standard of 5% positivity rate. This can only happen when everyone strictly abides by the Covid-19 guidelines and gets vaccinated.
Testing plays a vital role in reducing the spread of Covid-19. The Indian Council Medical Research, with the help of hospitals and doctors, is trying to increase testing procedures in the remotest parts of India. There is more need for testing kits for districts with a 10% or higher positivity rate.
Scientists are now speculating that the third wave of Covid-19 will hit India by October 2021. India is learning from the second wave and is preparing itself so that conditions do not get out of hand. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan stated, “India would have procured 267 cores of Covid-19 vaccination doses by the end of 2021”.
The government and doctors are trying their best to combat the situation. Still, as individuals, it is our duty to maintain social distance, wear a mask, and get tested if we experience any Covid-19 symptoms. It is also important to try to get vaccinated as early as possible.
If symptoms become severe, it’s better to get treated by doctors as soon as possible.
To know about the Covid-19 live update visit – https://www.mohfw.gov.in/.
Disclaimer: The information included at the site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
The number of active cases of COVID-19 has been steadily reducing since late September 2020 and it was then that most public places, schools, colleges and offices began opening their doors for regular operation.
Despite this, COVID protocols were being maintained with the utmost scrutiny in all such public places. As of February 2021, more than half of all the Indian states reported that there was not a single death due to COVID-19 and this ushered in some much-needed hope.
However, recent studies conducted by scientists at Delhi, using a mathematical model have examined that cases will be at a peak around 20th April 2021.
Leading Indian scientists from the most renowned institutes and research centres have suggested that 2 distinctive factors can be used to trace this sudden and sharp rise of active cases in India.
In the case of a coronavirus variant, it may take time for the mutated virus to spread, depending on how contagious it is. A very transmissible variant such as delta can cause a faster acceleration in new cases leading to waves.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
With such a sharp rise in new cases of COVID-19, the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have been marked to be high-risk states that are already experiencing the effects of the Second Wave.
Despite the rapid testing and the extensive vaccination drives undertaken by the government, the daily caseload of infected people is averaging at around 55,000 as opposed to the few couple thousand last year.
The second wave of Covid was more severe than the first wave and is attributed majorly to insufficient vaccinations and human behaviour of not following covid appropriate behaviour. Following appropriate measures for Covid will be very essential to prevent any further outbreaks.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Many states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab have been counting the number of cases peaking either equal to or more than their earlier records from the previous year. Although states like West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are likely to be still in the infant stages of the Second Wave, state governments have ramped up their testing and inoculation drives. Scientists expect this Second Wave to last more than 2 or 3 months, given the progress of vaccinations of a population that is 1.3 billion strong.
Manindra Agarwal of IIT Kharagpur who is famous for pioneering the ‘Super Model’ has stated that this Second Wave is most likely to see a sharp fall following April. Nevertheless, taking comfort in the low death rates is not the way to go and we should all follow the stipulated COVID protocols whenever venturing out.
With these alarming situations around, take good care of your health with regular checkups through PharmEasy!
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been an eye-opener. People have realized that a weak immune system can be lethal. It makes the body susceptible to various different kinds of infections. It is a vicious cycle with no end. But this cycle can be averted. Since the root of the problem is a feeble immunity, the solution can be found by addressing the root. Improving your immunity can help you live a long and healthy life. It can greatly reduce the risk of contracting not just the current infection but many other illnesses as well, even ones that are not known to us yet.
The pandemic is also when the spotlight switched to natural and Ayurvedic products. People have begun to once again place their trust in products that are safe, organic and will not harm their bodies and yet yield multiple health benefits.
So it’s no surprise that EverHerb is a name that reached almost every household!
Ayurveda had established many centuries ago that the secret to a strong body lies in nature. Mother nature has given us humans so many different kinds of herbs and foods that have the potential to make us stronger and more resistant to illnesses.
EverHerb derives its philosophy and principles from the knowledge bestowed to us by Ayurveda. And at a time of the biggest health crisis in living memory, this brand churned out a series of products aimed at helping with immunity problems.
The ingredients used by EverHerb of each product in the immunity range are completely safe, organic, and sourced from the finest farms. This ensures that you consume only the best products.
Let us take a look at some of the products from this range and how they may help you-
Amla has been proved to be one of the best sources of Vitamin C. This vitamin is an essential antioxidant that can work against cell damage due to free radicals. When all cells, including your immunity cells, perform at their peak, you will be healthy and strong.
Giloy and Tulsi both find mention in Ayurvedic texts in the context of immunity. Tulsi is known for its healing properties, its extracts act as powerful antioxidants and are antibacterial in nature. Giloy has proven anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing properties. Together they can help with your immunity and can be useful against fever and infections.
Certain health conditions such as diabetes can worsen your immunity. That is why doctors urge you to strictly manage such illnesses. Alongside medication, you can also try some natural products. EverHerb’s Karela Jamun juice contains extracts from Karela and Jamun which can help manage the symptoms of high blood sugar levels and also boost your immunity.
Also Read: Does Hyaluronic Acid Help Acne? A Research-Based Guide to Clear Skin
Moringa extracts are loaded with all the vital minerals, amino acids, and vitamins that act as antioxidants. A complete nutrition dose can help to strengthen the body and increase immunity.
If you prefer consuming Tulsi in the form of tablets instead of juice, you can opt for EverHerb Tulsi Capsules. These capsules contain extracts of the super anti-oxidant Tulsi and can not only aid in strengthening up your immunity but also provide your body with important nutrients like vitamins A, C, calcium, iron, zinc, etc.
Boosting your immunity and managing comorbid conditions is of tremendous importance right now. Eat healthy food, exercise regularly, give up on unhealthy practices such as smoking and drinking in excess and consume Ayurvedic products. Your body will surely thank you!
Also Read: Karela Jamun Juice Benefits: A Research-Based Guide to its Health Wonders
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.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Russia’s Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology began human trials on their COVID-19 vaccine in June. In July, the chief researcher claimed that the trials had been concluded and they were completely successful. On 11th August, Russia announced that the vaccine has been approved, it is ready and the first batch will be rolled out towards the end of August. Mass vaccination will start in the upcoming months in Russia. The vaccine has been named Sputnik V after the Sputnik 1- the first satellite ever to be launched from Earth (launched by the former USSR).
Initially, as expected, the common people around the world were excited. The pandemic has claimed far too many lives and has brought immense hardships to our lives. And if finally, a country has produced the much-needed vaccine, shouldn’t that be a cause for celebration?
The experts don’t agree. Most countries of the world are not jubilant about Russia’s new vaccine and politics has nothing to do with it.
Medical and healthcare experts have actually raised an alarm that the vaccine would not be safe for use. The simple reason why they are not happy is – the vaccine production was rushed.
Russia started human trials in June and they claimed in August that the vaccine was ready. According to experts, this was impossible as Human trials take more than 1-2 months for completion.
Another reason why experts are worried is that Russia did not even conduct the 3rd phase of human trials. The health crisis caused by coronavirus is severe. But that is no excuse to hurriedly wrap up human trials and forgo the 3rd phase. This could lead to a fresh round of health complications if people’s bodies cannot accept the new vaccine. Experts feel that to end coronavirus, Russia is about to do something that could endanger the lives of thousands of people.
Although India has not made any public announcements regarding the Russian vaccine, India’s silence on this matter can be seen as a sign of disinterest in Sputnik V. Medical professionals in India are of the same opinion as their international colleagues. They feel that the vaccine may not be suitable for use.
But there is no need for Indians to despair. Even if we don’t start vaccinating in September or October like Russia, our own vaccine may not be that far off.
1. Covaxin which is being produced by Bharat Biotech, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV).
2. ZyCOV-D which is being produced by Zydus Cadila.
On top of that, we are collaborating with Britain on their Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. This vaccine too is in its trial phase in India and has shown a lot of promise.
So, let us be hopeful! The medical community is working round the clock to get a safe COVID-19 vaccine in the market. In the meanwhile, we can prevent the further spread of the infection by maintaining proper social distancing, practicing sanitization and self-hygiene and going out only when absolutely necessary.
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