Virus Disease (COVID-19)
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 current status in India
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the newly identified infectious disease which is caused by a newly discovered strain of coronavirus.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Some patients could also experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea
Need to get a medical opinion during the lockdown? We’ve got you covered. You can get a virtual consultation with an SLMC registered doctor from the comfort of your home with oDoc.
What is the recovery rate of COVID 19?
About 80% of those infected with the virus recover from the disease. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets 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. SO therefore, should take the precautionary measures to keep themselves safe
What are the precautionary measures you should take to keep yourself safe?
How does COVID-19 spread?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease so you can catch it from those who are affected. It spreads from person to person via small droplets through the nose or mouth when an infected person coughs or exhales. These droplets can land on objects and surfaces around them. By touching these objects or surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth you can catch the virus. 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.
*information is still evolving
Who is at high risk of developing serious illness?
Older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes ae at a higher risk.
Should I take antibiotics to help prevent myself?
No, antibiotics do not work against viruses.
How can we help protect the elderly?
- Ensure they wash hands frequently
- Encourage them to practice social distancing – do not receive visitors unless absolutely necessary
- Encourage them to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary
- Refill their medication
- Help them with groceries and stocking of food
- Educate them on the precautionary measures to be taken
- Keep a distance of atleast 3ft from them
- Have a communication channel to stay in touch with them during social distancing
- Encourage them to walk around while being indoors – do not let them be bed bound