Coronavirus outbreak: Symptoms and other important questions answered

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Coronavirus outbreak a pandemic as, since its start in December, more than 4,500 people have been killed, over 1,00,000 people across 100 countries have been infected amid the outbreak.

The Indian government has taken a series of measures,including suspension of visas of all foreign nationals coming to the country till April 15.

Here we addressfrequently asked questions about coronavirus:

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What are the Symptoms of the Disease?

Those who have been infected with coronavirus, suffer coughs, fever and breathing difficulties. The symptoms could take up to 14 days to appear. The coronavirus can also cause pneumonia.

Do Face Masks Help?

While they don't guarantee total protection, experts do recommend using one. The virus transmits through droplets when someone sneezes.

If you are close to someone who has been infected, the mask can stop the disease from being passed on. Similarly, if you are showing the symptoms, wearing a mask can protect others.

Is There a Cure?

So far, there is none. There is no approved drug for the coronavirus, but several are being tested. According to reports from last month, the doctors are using a combination of drugs and methods to treat the patients.

When Can We Expect the Vaccination

How Can you Protect Yourself?

Wash your hands with clean water and soap, meticulous hand washing is the best available option. If that is not possible, one may use wipes or hand sanitizers. Avoid touching your face, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

If you are visiting any affected areas, avoid direct, unprotected contact with live animals, or surfaces that were under contact with animals. Avoid eating raw, undercooked animal products.

Keep some distance from people who are obviously sick and avoid direct contact with them. Avoid public gatherings,wet markets or farms.

Soap vs Sanitizers - What's Better?

Soaps

Destroy outer limits of the virus
Destroy internal bonds of virus
Usually, entire hands are washed

Sanitisers

Needs to be used in enough quantity
Needs to have enough alcohol content
Not effective on hands covered in dirt

When Should You See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms, especially fever or shortness of breath. Ensure you provide your travel history

Can You Get the Coronavirus Twice?

According to medical experts, those who have had the virus once will develop some immunity, and it is rare to get an infectious disease again. However, second positive tests of coronavirus have been reported in China and Japan and this could be because of a weak immune system.

Should You Avoid Shipped Packages/Food Packages/Gas Pumps/Shopping Carts/ATMs?

No. Coronavirus surface survival is one thing; that surface causing an infection is another. Wash your hands as per the WHO instructions after touching the packages/surfaces.

Does Taking Hydroxychloroquine and Azithromycin Preemptively Prevent Covid-19?

These (experimental) drugs for coronavirus should only be used in selected Covid patients. They can sometimes cause fatal heart rhythm problems plus other side effects.

Does Garlic/Lemon With Hot Water Prevent or Cure Covid-19 ?

None of these substances has been scientifically tested against Covid-19