COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus. It’s newly discovered which makes it harder to find a cure for the said disease. This newly discovered virus can affect almost anyone. Therefore, the world was shut down due to the fast spread of the virus. People who got infected experienced mild to severe symptoms. Everyone who has contact with an infected individual needs to undergo quarantine.
Where the Virus Came From?
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 was first reported from Wuhan, China in December 2019. The virus was identified as SARS-CoV-2. The earliest link to the virus is from a food market in that said location. Many vendors and visitors of that market were the initial patients that have been diagnosed with COVID-19. After that event, its genetic sequence was made public in January 2020.
Where Does COVID-19 Usually Exist?
Coronavirus usually exists from mammals and birds. It’s related to the RNA viruses those species can be exposed to. In humans, it can cause respiratory tract infections. Same with birds and other mammals. The effect can be from mild to severe which can be lethal.
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
Coronavirus can spread rapidly from droplets caused by coughing, sneezing, or even from the exhales of the infected person. Although these droplets cant hangs from the air, it will normally just falls from the surface or the ground. However, even if this virus is not airborne, it can infect anyone if several people are near the infected individual which causes it to spread fast enough.
Why Is This New Virus So Dangerous?
COVID-19 is more dangerous compared to SARS-1 which is already deadly. It’s ten times dangerous compared to seasonal flu which can also lead to death. The coronavirus can be fatal depending on the pre-existing condition of the infected person. Many people who get infected by COVID-19 died due to several contributing factors. The spread of this virus is what makes it very dangerous.
Can We Treat this Virus Effectively?
Although none can be immune from this virus, it’s possible to fight the disease provided that the condition will not develop into pneumonia. Depending on the infected’s reaction to the virus, it’s possible that the body can clear it out. People who don’t have existing severe conditions can be treated in case of infection. In October 2020, an antiviral drug Remdesivir is used to treat infected individuals to speed up recovery.
How to Stop the Spread of the Virus?
The World Health Organization provided information to prevent the spread of COVID-19. To stop or at least slow down the virus, regular hand washing is necessary. Social distancing is also advised to avoid contact from any infected individuals. Avoid touching the face, covering the mouth and nose are also advised. Staying at home is also recommend if going out of the house is unnecessary.
How to Protect Myself and Others?
Social distancing is necessary, about 1 meter away between yourself and the others. It can reduce the risk from the droplets others may spread from coughing or sneezing. Staying at home is the best way to distance yourself from possible infection. If you have to go outdoors, wear a face mask to avoid getting infected or spreading the virus.
Can Disposable Face Masks Really Against Viruses?
Wearing disposable face masks such as the KN95 masks or N95 Respirator Masks can help to avoid the risk of getting infected. It will protect your nose from inhaling the virus. You can also avoid causing droplets from your mouth when you sneeze. It’s crucial to wear a face mask whenever you have to go out to protect yourself and others.
You may also want to know the differences between N95 and KN95 masks. (FYI.)
What’s the Trend of COVID-19 in the US?
COVID-19 trend in the US is still rising. There are 12.8M cases and 262,000 deaths were reported as of November 2020. The coronavirus is still widely spreading even after several nationwide lockdowns and quarantine has been implemented from the previous months.
Conclusion
COVID-19 changes the way we live since it continues to spread around the world. There’s no specific cure for this virus at the moment. Therefore, we need to follow the health protocols that have been communicated. Wearing disposable face masks is one way to combat this pandemic. So make sure to keep yourself and others protected all the time.