All About the Coronavirus

Everyone should have heard of the coronavirus. Not only has Wuhan already been locked down, but also many countries have already taken extreme measures such as imposing travel or trade restrictions. However, is every news posted on social media true? What exactly is it? How can you prevent being infected from it?

 

☆WHAT IS CORONAVIRUS?

Coronavirus is pneumonia that originated in Wuhan, China in December 2019. This is one of the 6 types of coronavirus that infects humans. The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) identified the pathogen as a new coronavirus and has named it 2019-nCoV (2019 new coronavirus). In addition to China, cases have also been confirmed in Japan, Thailand, South Korea, and India. Research results show that this new coronavirus belongs to the same species as the virus that caused SARS between 2002 and 2003 in China, but the new coronavirus has a lower death rate than the SARS.

 

☆WHERE DID 2019-nCoV COME FROM?

According to WHO, the outbreak is most likely from animals, although some misleading theories blame the virus outbreak on bats and others on snakes. The first case of this disease emerged in the Wuhan South China Seafood Wholesale Market. However, now the phenomenon of "people-to-people" has appeared. Two new victims in Guangdong have not been to Wuhan but instead were infected after their respective family members obtained the disease. 

 

☆THE SYMPTOMS 

The symptoms of this virus include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Although the fatality rate is 2 o 4%, it can even cause death. The virus is mostly infected by elderlies, as opposed to young, healthy, strong people. 

 

Social media is spreading misinformation about the dangers of getting infected. The best way to get information is from reliable sources like WHO. 

 

☆HOW TO PREVENT THIS VIRUS 

Yuan Guoyong, an expert from the Chinese Health Commission, recommends that if you want to prevent this disease, it is very important to "wear a mask". However, masks are running out in Japan right now. With limited access to masks, people need to pay more attention to the hygiene of the mouth, nose, and eyes. Therefore, washing your hands after going outdoors can also help prevent the virus. 

 

In addition, experts suggest that you should avoid contact with live animals, thoroughly cook meat and eggs, and avoid contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.