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Don't let yourself be in the dark when it comes to understanding the very basics about the global pandemic Covid-19.
1. Summarizing all the must-know information about the WHO and Ministry of Health recommended COVID-19 pandemic
Don't let yourself be in the dark when it comes to understanding the very basics about the global pandemic Covid-19.
In this time of unpredictable COVID-19 developments, timely updating of crucial information and understanding from basic sources is essential.
However, many are still not fully grasping the basic information about COVID-19. Below are practical insights that everyone should know during the rampant COVID-19 outbreak.
1. What type of virus is the coronavirus?
According to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), the coronavirus is a large family of viruses that can be found in both animals and humans. This type of virus, when active, can cause the common cold and lead to more serious illnesses such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
2. What is the 'new' coronavirus?
After the coronavirus spread in Wuhan (China), a new strain of coronavirus that had not been identified in humans before emerged. This new virus is now called SARS-CoV-2 (novel coronavirus). It had not been detected before this disease outbreak was reported in the city of Wuhan in December 2019.
4. How dangerous is the 'new' coronavirus?
Being a respiratory-related virus, it is natural that when infected, patients will experience respiratory symptoms. The disease can become more severe in some individuals with weak immunity, leading to pneumonia, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, death. Additionally, elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease) are at higher risk of severe illness.
5. Clinical manifestations of patients infected with the coronavirus
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), clinical manifestations of this virus include:
- High fever above 38°C.
- Cough.
- Fatigue.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Pneumonia.
- Spreading lung damage.
- Acute respiratory failure.
Some patients may have mild symptoms at onset without fever. Most infected patients remain in good health, with only a few experiencing severe illness and even death.
6. What is the safe distance when near someone coughing, with a fever, suspected of COVID-19 infection?
Scientific studies have shown that droplets (saliva) can travel a maximum of 2 meters. Therefore, to protect oneself from the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO recommends maintaining a safe distance of 2 meters from individuals showing symptoms of coughing, sneezing, or fever (suspected coronavirus infection) to limit inhaling or being exposed to those droplets.
8. Can dogs and cats transmit the new coronavirus?
There is currently no scientific evidence to support this claim.
9. Can COVID-19 be transmitted through blood transfusion?
The World Health Organization (WHO) asserts that respiratory viruses have not been documented to transmit through blood.
10. What should one do if suspecting oneself or a loved one of coronavirus infection?
The Ministry of Health advises immediate reporting to health authorities, local governments for monitoring, handling, and containing the outbreak. Suspected individuals should undergo health monitoring and home quarantine under reputable medical supervision.
11. Does consuming garlic prevent COVID-19 infection?
Garlic is beneficial for health and may possess antibacterial properties. However, there is no evidence in this outbreak indicating garlic consumption protects against the coronavirus.
12. How are coronavirus patients treated?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there's no specific treatment for illnesses caused by the novel coronavirus. However, many symptoms can be managed, and patients should receive treatment based on clinical conditions.
This virus is highly sensitive to heat. Disinfectants containing 75% alcohol, chlorine-containing disinfectants, hydroperoxide disinfectants, chloroform, and other lipid solvents can deactivate the virus at 56°C for 30 minutes.
13. What is the incubation period?
The incubation period typically spans from virus exposure to onset of clinical symptoms. Currently estimated at 2-11 days, these estimates will be adjusted with additional data.
Based on information from other coronaviruses (including MERS and SARS), the incubation period for SARS-CoV-2 may extend up to 14 days.
14. Which groups are most vulnerable to severe COVID-19?
- Healthcare workers.
- Individuals over 60 years old.
- Individuals with underlying medical conditions (such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or compromised immune systems).
15. Are children and adolescents significantly affected by COVID-19?
The answer is VERY LITTLE! Most cases in this demographic exhibit mild symptoms.
