WHAT IS COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS)? Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERSCoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).
WHY IS THIS CORONAVIRUS CALLED NOVEL? A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans (World Health Organization, 2020). Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death (WHO, 2020).
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF? Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing (WHO, 2020).
Coping Corner
We are all about protecting your mental health during this pandemic. Check out these helpful resources!
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has answers to all of your questions. Visit their website for more.
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