CORONAVIRUS 101 - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW...
Gina Giordan
AS THE CORONAVIRUS CONTINUES TO SPREAD ACROSS THE TRI-STATE, it’s important to remain calm and arm yourself with the most basic information at hand.
You could invest in this timely handbook, “101 Science-Based Tips That Could Save Your Life,” By Wang Zhou or just familiarize yourself with these basic facts, don’t panic and be sure to sign up for daily updates from the CDC.Gov.
What is coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals. COVID-19 Novel (meaning “new”) coronavirus is a virus strain that has only spread in people since December 2019. There are thousands of confirmed cases in China and additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally, including the United States.
How does novel coronavirus spread?
The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source, but now it seems to be spreading from person to person. Since this virus is very new, health authorities continue to carefully watch how this virus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through:
The air by coughing and sneezing
Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
How can I prevent getting novel coronavirus?
Currently there are no vaccines available to prevent novel coronavirus infections.
Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus:
Please be aware that we have hand sanitizers in all training rooms as well as soap in all 5 bathrooms.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Push doors open with elbows when possible.
Use tissues to open bathroom doors when leaving.
Instructors will avoid handshakes and high fives to students and parents as a safety measure as well.
How severe is novel coronavirus?
People infected have had illness that has ranged from mild (like a common cold) to severe pneumonia that requires medical care in a hospital. So far, deaths have been reported mainly in older adults who had other health conditions.
What are the symptoms?
People who have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus have symptoms that may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
How is novel coronavirus treated?
There is no specific treatment for coronavirus. Most people with mild coronavirus illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. However, some people develop pneumonia and need medical care or treatment in a hospital.
The best ways to prevent the spread of any virus is to make sure children stay home if they are exhibiting any symptoms.
Here are symptoms to look for in the Corona Virus:
*Occur 2-14 days after exposure
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of Breathe