Coronavirus : Fears of a Second Wave

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 14 June 2020, 7,949,308 Confirmed cases have been reported worldwide with 434,155 deaths. 

The countries, which are still fighting against coronavirus, have begun to slow down the lockdown measures, which have been imposed for months. The assumption of a second wave should be taken into account as people have already interacting with the other people.

 

In China, where the COVID-19 outbreak has begun, have fears of a second wave due to a resurrection in new cases. As it has identified by the Chinese authorities, 57 new coronavirus infected confirmed cases have been reported within 24 hours. 36 patients have been reported from Beijing. The authorities have said that the Xinfadi market, which is the largest wholesale market in Beijing, was closed after detecting coronavirus affected cases. 

People can catch COVID-19 due to a close contact with an infected patient. 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.

Most of the countries, including Sri Lanka, have been successful at slowing the pandemic through a massive public effort. It is our responsibility to slow down the transmission of COVID-19.