Editor
05-Feb-2020
Coronaviruses is new family of viruses that had previously not been identified in humans can cause illness anywhere between common cold to Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.
According to World Health Organisation, coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
Common signs include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
To prevent infection, it is advised to wash hands with a good soap or liquid soap, one mist cover his/her mouth while yawning, coughing and sneezing. Close contact with anyone showing signs of illness, cold and cough must be avoided.
According to Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, there is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. 2. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty. 3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 4. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 5. Stay home when you are sick. 6. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. 7. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
