The novel coronavirus disease began as a handful of a mysterious illness in Wuhan (China), and later it spread to various parts of the world. With many human lives lost due to the pandemic, many countries around the globe are taking precautionary measures.
While scientists are trying to find a no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, the government is urging people to follow the safety measures. Several countries have imposed travel bans and lockdown to control the spread of infections. Work from home has become the norm for working professionals, and schools are shifting to virtual classes.
In the event of an epidemic, it is common to see people wearing face masks to protect themselves from getting infected. It is a crucial time when everyone should safeguard against this dangerous and contagious disease. It is also essential to have accurate medical information about the disease to stay safe.
So, here is a complete guide to help you stay safe.
What is Coronavirus?
COVID- 19 (CO stands for corona, VI stands for the virus, and D stands for disease, and it came into existence in 2019 and thus known as COVID- 19) is also known as novel coronavirus disease. It is referred to as novel coronavirus as a permanent name has not been given to it yet.
Coronavirus is a family of viruses that infects humans, animals, and birds, resulting in acute respiratory illnesses. It can also lead to more severe diseases such as the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and SARS. The virus spreads through the air and leads to infection in the nose, sinuses, or upper throat.
>> Check: Coronavirus Insurance Plans in India
Causes of Coronavirus
Coronavirus spreads in the following ways:
- Coughing or sneezing by infected persons
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Touching things contaminated with the virus
Symptoms of Coronavirus
Some of the common symptoms shown by a person infected by Coronavirus include:
- Stuffy or running nose
- Severe cough
- Sneezing
- Sore Throat
- Headache
- Body Ache
- High Fever
- Breathing Difficulty
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Gastrointestinal Problems
- Impairment of Kidney and Lung Functions
In the worst cases, it can even lead to death.
Who Should be Tested?
As per health experts, every citizen in India need not undertake the test for COVID-19 if one does. Tests may are necessary if one shows the symptoms of the diseases or has come in contact with an infected person. However, the decisions about testing are the discretion of the local health department. People in the following categories should take the test:
- Individuals with a travel history in recent days
- Family members of those individuals
- People who experience symptoms of the disease
- Clinicians and healthcare professionals who work closely to treat infected people
Diagnosis of Coronavirus
A lab test is recommended for detecting the presence of coronavirus in the body. The tests are conducted on the samples of sputum, serum, or blood of a person reporting symptoms.
How to Get Tested?
Individuals and their family members can go for a test at the authorized laboratories in their respective cities. The central government has authorised private laboratories that have NABL accreditation for real-time PCR RNA to conduct a test for novel coronavirus.
The National Task Force recommends that the cost of the test should not exceed Rs. 4500. The total cost is segregated as Rs. 1500 for the screening test and Rs. 3000 for a confirmation test.
There are two testing methods for COVID-19 – viral tests and antibody tests. The following tests can help in knowing if a person is coronavirus positive:
- Swab Test: In this procedure, a lab technician collects a sample from the inside of the throat or nose of a person, using a special cotton swab.
- Blood Test: A blood test is done either through a blanket test for all variants of the coronavirus or through a specialized gene sequencing test that locates the marker for the novel coronavirus.
- Tracheal Aspirate: In this testing procedure, a bronchoscope (a thin, lighted tube) goes into the lungs for obtaining tracheal secretions.
- Sputum Test: It is a procedure wherein sputum samples are collected with a swab.
- Nasal Aspirate: In this procedure, a sample is collected using a saline solution injected into the nose and then removed with gentle suction.
Who is Likely to Get Affected by Coronavirus?
The virus can infect people of all age groups. People who have been in contact with an infected person or those who have travelled recently to the high-risk areas must be watchful. Senior citizens and those having a pre-existing medical condition face higher risks.
Treatment Methods for Coronavirus
At present, there is no vaccination or anti-viral drugs available for this new type of Coronavirus. The people getting infected by this virus are given supportive care to provide them relief from symptoms and protect damage to vital organs. Those who suspect they have symptoms of coronavirus illness should immediately seek medical attention.
Tips to Prevent Getting Infected by Coronavirus
- Take the vaccination as soon as possible
- Eat healthy foods to keep your immune system strong
- Stay hydrated and get adequate sleep
- Avoid close contact with persons affected by acute respiratory infections and fever due to Coronavirus
- Exercise basic hygiene such as washing hands particularly after direct contact with an infected person
- Wear single-use face masks and be careful about touching things when in busy locations like airports or public transport
- Avoid contact with farm, animals or animal market
- People with acute respiratory infection should follow etiquettes such as covering a cough or sneeze with using disposable tissues or crook of the elbow and wash hands with soap or hand sanitizer containing above 60% alcohol
- Stay at home and avoid going out if sick
- Clean kitchen countertops, bathroom, staircase railing, and door handles with disinfectant
>>Also Read: Tips for Home Cleaning and Sanitizing the House for Coronavirus Prevention
It is vital to follow the safety measures and maintain social distancing, which would help in flattening the curve. Besides, getting protection in the form of a health insurance cover is of utmost importance in the present times.
Getting hospitalized for any ailment leads to huge expenditure for a medical treatment which is why we suggest you should be equipped with health insurance plans for a family. Buy a comprehensive health insurance plan for your family from Care Health Insurance (Formerly Religare Health Insurance) that will offer treatment cover for coronavirus disease.
Disclaimer: The above information is only for reference purposes. Underwriting of claims for COVID-19 is subject to policy terms and conditions.
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