CORONAVIRUS;THE CRUCIAL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE PANDEMIC.

The newly discovered Coronavirus causes an infectious disease called Coronavirus disease(COVID-19).
Most people infected by the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older people and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease,diabetes mellitus,chronic respiratory disease and cancer are more like to develop serious illness.

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about COVID-19 virus,its symptoms,mode of transmission and preventive measures to be taken against the pandemic.

MODE OF TRANSMISSION
The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes.This virus can also be spread through contaminated objects,such as home furniture and kitchen utensils,if one touches any of these items and then touches your eyes,mouth or nose,you could develop the disease.


SYMPTOMS
Indications to watch out for are;coughing,sneezing,cold,fever,general weakness,pneumonia,chest pain,sore throat and difficulty in breathing.The aforementioned symptoms relay that there's manifestation of the virus in the person.

The pertinent question at the juncture should be,how do I protect myself from this deadly infection?
Well,the good news is,the precautions to be taken are eath and straightforward and will go a long way in curbing the proliferation of the disease,these are;

(1).Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water as this will help kill viruses that may be on your hands.

(2).Maintain social distance;At least 1 metre(3 feet) distance should be maintained between yourself and anyone who coughs or sneezes.

This is because when someone sneezes or coughs,they spray some liquid droplets which may contain the virus and normally,it cannot extend beyond 1 metre because it is light,this will therefore prevent contact.

(3).Avoid touching the eyes,nose and mouth because the hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses,once contaminated, hands transfer the virus to your eyes,nose or mouth.From there,the virus can enter your body and make you sick.

(4).Practice respiratory hygiene;Make sure you and the people around you follow good respiratory hygiene.This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.Then,dispose off the used tissue immediately.

(5).If you have fever,cough and difficulty breathing,seek medical care early.National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area.Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility.This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.

SPECIAL INFORMATION TO NIGERIANS;you can call this toll-free line if you suspect Coronavirus disease; 080097000010

At this time,there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19 .However,there are many ongoing clinical trials evaluating potential treatments.

My dear beautiful reader,your health is my priority,so keep to the precautions and relay this information to your loved ones.

#Stay safe

#Thursday Times.