Novel CoronaVirus C OVID 19: What do we know about it?

Dr. Ankit Parakh
Medically Authored & Reviewed by Dr. Ankit Parakh MBBS, MD, DNB, FNB (Pediatric Pulmonology), ERS Fellow (London, UK)
On this page 5 sections
  1. How does Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) spread?
  2. What are the symptoms of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?
  3. Which group of people are most vulnerable to Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?
  4. How can we prevent the spread of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?
  5. Is there an effective treatment or vaccine for Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?

What is Novel CoronavirusCoronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in human beings. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, which was first detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.

How does Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) spread?

The Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets also land on objects and surfaces around the person. The Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) can survive on these objects or surfaces for few hours to up to few days. People can also catch Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) by touching these objects or surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

What are the symptoms of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?

Common symptoms of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) are fever, cough, nasal congestion, running nose and throat pain. Some patients may have body ache, vomiting or loose motions. Most Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) infected people get a mild to moderate disease and would have an uneventful recovery. Some patients with Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) becomes seriously ill with increasing difficulty in breathing. If you or your child is having fever, cough and difficulty breathing kindly seek urgent medical attention.

Which group of people are most vulnerable to Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?

Elderly population especially more than 65 years are more likely to have a serious disease especially if they have an underlying health problem like hypertension, heart issues or diabetes.

How can we prevent the spread of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?

The best way to prevent the spread of Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) is to practice respiratory etiquettes. While coughing or sneezing use a disposable tissue, then discard the tissue and wash your hands. Else cough into a flexed elbow if no tissue is available.

Since, Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19) can survive on surfaces for long avoid touching surfaces in public places which might be infected. Also, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based rub. Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes with unwashed hands.

Is there an effective treatment or vaccine for Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19)?

Currently, there is no specific vaccines or medicines available for Novel CoronaVirus (COVID 19). Clinical research is going on for possible treatment or vaccines.

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Medical Advice & Clinical Disclaimer

The educational medical guidance provided in this guide is for informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for direct pediatric consultation, physical diagnosis, or clinical prescription. For individualized medical assessment of your child, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ankit Parakh.

Dr. Ankit Parakh
ABOUT THE SPECIALIST

Dr. Ankit Parakh

Senior Consultant Pediatric Pulmonologist, Allergy & Sleep Specialist

Dr. Ankit Parakh is among India's leading pediatric lung and allergy specialists, having trained in top institutions in India and the UK (London). He specializes in pediatric asthma, recurrent wheezing, persistent cough, allergy testing, and flexible bronchoscopy.

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