What is Coronavirus? Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment

A coronavirus is a group of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses in humans including common cold and more severe forms like Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) which are life-threatening. There are no vaccines or antiviral drugs that are approved for prevention or treatment. The virus was named after its shape which takes the form of a crown with protrusions around it and hence is known as coronavirus.

Common Symptoms of Coronavirus:

Coronavirus infection is similar to a common cold, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. 

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India has set up a 24X7 helpline number which is 011-23978046 to attend queries about the novel Coronavirus (nCov) as several cases rose across the world.
Anyone seeking information can call to know details about District and State surveillance officers and in case of any clinical query connects with the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) Officer.

coronavirus India Helpline

Coronavirus Prevention and Treatment:

There is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. WHO’s standard recommendations for the general public to reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses are as follows, which include hand and respiratory hygiene, and safe food practices:

  • Wash your hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap & water
  • When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with tissue then throw the tissue away immediately and wash your hands
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough
  • If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
  • Avoid the consumption of raw or undercooked animal products
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands

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