CORONA VIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19): WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR CHILDREN

By: Mr Oscar Ifeanyi I. 

The disease caused by the novel Coronavirus (SARS COV-2), first identified in Wuhan, China, has been named COVID-19 by the World health organisation. ‘CO’ stands for corona, ‘VI’ for virus, and ‘D’ for disease.

The COVID-19 virus is a relatively new virus linked to the same family of viruses as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and some types of common cold.

What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

Symptoms can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia or breathing difficulties.

These symptoms are similar to the flu (influenza) or the common cold, which are a lot more common than COVID-19. This is why testing is required to confirm if someone has COVID-19. It’s important to remember that key prevention measures are the same – frequent hand washing, and respiratory hygiene (cover your cough or sneeze with a flexed elbow or tissue, then throw away the tissue into a closed bin). 

How does the COVID-19 virus spread?

The virus is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person (generated through coughing and sneezing), and touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. The COVID-19 virus may survive on surfaces for a few hours to several days, but simple disinfectants can kill it. Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets which enter the body through the mouth, nose and the eyes. 

COVID-19 has been described as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. What does that mean? 

Characterizing COVID-19 as a pandemic is not an indication that the virus has become deadlier than before. Rather, it’s an acknowledgement of the disease’s geographical spread.

There are a lot of myths and misinformation about coronavirus being shared online – including false information on how COVID-19 spreads, how to stay safe, and what to do if you’re worried about having contracted the virus.

So, it’s important to be careful where you look for information and advice. 

How can I protect myself and others from COVID-19?

Here are some precautions you and your family can take to help avoid infection:

1) Wash your hands frequently using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub

2) Cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissue immediately

3) Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms

4) Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like phones, doorknobs, light switches and countertops

5) Practice Social and Physical distancing. 

6) Seek medical care early if you or your child has a fever, cough or difficulty breathing. 

What is the best way to wash hands properly?

Step 1: Wet hands with running water

Step 2: Apply enough soap to cover wet hands

Step 3: Scrub all surfaces of the hands – including back of hands, between fingers and under nails – for at least 20 seconds.

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with running water

Step 5: Dry hands with a clean cloth or single-use towel

Wash your hands often, especially before eating; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; and going to the bathroom. 

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.

What should I do if a family member displays symptoms?

You should seek medical care early if you, your child or a family member has a fever, cough or difficulty breathing. Consider calling ahead to tell your health care provider if you have traveled to an area where COVID-19 has been reported, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has traveled from one of these areas and has respiratory symptoms.

  By the grace of God, COVID-19 will not last forever but as we anticipate the decline and complete eradication of the virus from our planet, let us endeavour to stay safe, follow safety guidelines, and stay updated on verifiable and accurate information. Together, we will get through this.