Over the past few weeks, you’ve probably heard multiple discussions about the Coronavirus. There is no doubt this pandemic has created quite a disruption in everyday life. The virus has spread from one continent to another. Originating from China, it has now created a serious impact in America. But how much of what you’ve heard is true? And what is the coronavirus? Let’s talk about it.
Background
The coronavirus began in Wuhan, China, this past December in 2019. Research has stated that the virus came from the consumption of some type of animal from the Wuhan market. Though it originated from an animal, now it is spreading from person to person. It is primarily a sickness that attacks the respiratory system. There are various forms of the coronavirus, such as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus. But there is a new form that has been identified and is now being called COVID-19, which was not previously associated with humans. This version of the virus comes with a fever and cough.
The symptoms are similar to the common cold and flu. It is recommended to visit your local clinic, hospital, or urgent care if you’re having breathing problems, a cough, or a slight fever. It is safer to take the right safety precautions. People with pre-existing medical issues may have a higher risk of getting severely affected by the virus. According to Johns Hopkins, the U.S. has gotten 500 cases of the coronavirus. Globally, there have been 108,000 cases.
Obstacles for Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals are working day and night to help stop the coronavirus from spreading further. But this also puts them at a higher risk. There are specific safety precautions at hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities that are being followed so that the faculty is able to stay healthy while helping others in need. Although, there have been multiple cases where exposure to patients has negatively affected the lives of health workers.
In Italy, a nurse’s face became badly bruised from constantly wearing a protection mask. The stress of staying safe from the virus can also cause burnout, and affect mental and physical health. The pre-existing shortage has also made this situation more difficult to deal with and others have had to pick up extra amounts of work. Furthermore, Florida has passed a bill that will expand the roles of nurses and pharmacists. This is an effort to ensure the safety of people from the virus.
Prevention
There are steps you can take in an effort to stay safe from the coronavirus:
- Seek medical attention if you are feeling any symptoms related to sickness.
- Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
- When you need to sneeze or cough, use a tissue to cover your nose/mouth, and then dispose of it right after.
- If you’re sick, stay home.
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitizer and wipes in situations where you are unable to wash your hands.
- Facemasks are recommended if you show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease.
Now
In response, there has been an implementation of traveling to different parts of the world, where the virus has uncontrollably spread. China, Italy, Japan, and Iran have a level 3 travel health notice, which states to avoid nonessential travel. Some colleges have temporarily canceled classes in order to look after the safety of their students and faculty. But with all the overwhelming news articles, and media attention, it’s important to stay alert and not believe every little thing you see. Grocery and retail stores are running out of merchandise as people are hurrying to stock up in anticipation of a quarantine. Items such as toilet paper, disinfectants, and even water bottles are emptying out in stores.
There have been many posts on social media platforms claiming to find out new details about the virus that is not true at all. Although this is a serious matter, medical professionals are working day and night to help control this pandemic, so the situation should not be over-exaggerated.
The World Health Organization has announced the coronavirus as a public health emergency of international concern. It is advised to contact your healthcare provider if you feel unwell at any time. There are resources out there for the safety of your health. Use them wisely!