The COVID-19 Series - Part 1

Coronaviruses are considered as a large family of viruses that can cause illnesses in animals or human beings. When it comes to the case of humans, it may cause respiratory infections from common cold to severe diseases (Middle East Respiratory syndrome (MERS), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The recently discovered coronavirus was not identified before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China. Corona virus (COVID-19) disease is an infectious disease. The epidemic has spread more than 195 countries including Europe and Asia. It has created a global pandemic situation. As of 19 May 2020, 4,868,822 Confirmed cases have been reported worldwide with 318,989 deaths. 

Symptoms

Fever,

Breathing difficulties,

Shortness of breath,

Dry cough,

Tiredness,

Aches and pains,

Headache,

Nasal congestion,

Sore throat,

Congestion, 

Loss of taste and smell

However, these symptoms are can be vary. Some people may be infected with COVID-19, but they might have mild symptoms. Anyone can be infected with COVID-19. Therefore, people who experience these symptoms should look for medical attention instantaneously.  Older people and those who with underlying medical problems (such as diabetes, heart and lung problems, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, cancer etc.) are likely to develop most serious illnesses. 

Some coronaviruses can be transmitted from one person to another. People can catch COVID-19 due to a close contact with an infected patient. Basically it spreads via small droplets from the nose or mouth. That is why people are advised to wash their hands before touching their face. These droplets are somewhat heavy. Therefore, these droplets quickly sink to the ground. However, it is important to keep 1 meter distance between two people. Studies have shown that COVID-19 virus can survive at least 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, less than 24 hours on cardboard. By cleaning your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub/ sanitizer/ soap, you can prevent from the virus infection. 

Slow down the transmission is the best way to prevent from COVID-19 and it is only possible if people are well informed about the disease, the causes and the ways in which it spreads. You can protect yourself and others by washing your hands and not touching your face. Although there are ongoing clinical trials, yet there is no specific vaccine for COVID-19.

In Sri Lanka, COVID-19 pandemic was confirmed on 27th of January, 2020, after a Chinese woman was admitted to IDH hospital. As of 19 May 2020, 991 confirmed cases have been reported with 9 deaths.