Coronavirus Pandemic 2020: FAQs; Causes, Prevention, Measures & Future

With over 1 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 all around the world, Coronavirus Pandemic has become a threat to human existence and prosperity. Its's been reported that more 203 countries have been effected socially and economically by the outbreak. India with now 3000 + cases is fighting this unspeakable evil with a 21 Days lockdown to curb the spread of the coronavirus in the country. 

It has become a national duty for each one of us to wash hands and follow social distancing by avoiding large gatherings and close contact with people. These are two of the most simple solutions to fight the spread of the disease until the world’s scientists figure out a concrete solution for the virus or a vaccine.

Below are few of the most asked questions on Coronavirus Pandemic 2020:

What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

What are the symptoms of Coronavirus

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhoea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.

How does COVID-19 spread 

People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets. This is why it is important to stay more than 1 meter (3 feet) away from a person who is sick. Can the virus that causes COVID-19 to be transmitted through the air? Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air.

Can CoVID-19 be caught from a person who has no symptoms? 

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true in the early stages of the disease. It is, therefore, possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

How To Prevent Coronavirus?

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, or use the inside of your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces daily using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wear facemasks to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place; after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. 
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. 

Are there any medicines or therapies that can prevent or cure COVID-19?

While some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of COVID-19, there is no evidence that current medicine can prevent or cure the disease. WHO does not recommend self-medication with any medicines, including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for COVID-19. However, several ongoing clinical trials include both western and traditional medicines.

Is there a vaccine, drug or treatment for COVID-19?

Not yet. To date, there is no vaccine and no specific antiviral medicine to prevent or treat COVID-2019. However, those affected should receive care to relieve symptoms. People with serious illness should be hospitalized. Most patients recover thanks to supportive care.

Possible vaccines and some specific drug treatments are under investigation. They are being tested through clinical trials. WHO is coordinating efforts to develop vaccines and medicines to prevent and treat COVID-19.

The most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to frequently clean your hands, cover your cough with the bend of elbow or tissue, and maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from people who are coughing or sneezing.

When Does the Coronavirus Pandemic End?

Vaccines are being developed all around the world, however, as per health officials, it will take least 12-18 months to come up with proper results.

A vaccine will provide a person with the immunity to fight back the virus when exposed. When about 60% of the population will get the vaccination then the virus cannot cause outbreaks, this is known as herd immunity.

However, doctors, scientists, and supercomputers are constantly working out 24*7 to put an end to the coronavirus. Let's hope for the best

“These are the times that try men's souls.”
― Thomas Paine

Information Source: WHO, FDA, Ministry of Health and Welfare