The media is flooded with updates regarding Coronavrius. Whether you’re the type to stock up on essentials for a potential quarantine, or you don’t bat an eye when it comes to germs, you should know the facts about COVID-19. Educating yourself on this pandemic will help you make the right decisions for your health.
What is Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are nothing new. They are a large family of viruses that are common in people and animals. In rare occurrences, like with COVID-19, the virus can spread from animals to humans.
This novel (new) coronavirus originated in Wuhan, China this past December. It’s similar to previous respiratory illnesses such as MERS and SARS. According to the CDC, the new coronavirus was named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes is “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).
COVID-19 is highly contagious. It spreads through close contact, for example, via droplets from a cough or sneeze as well as from contact with an infected surface. It’s even possible to be asymptomatic and still spread the disease.
The Symptoms
Symptoms of Coronavirus can range from mild to life-threatening, and they are similar to the common cold and flu. Some people might experience a small sniffle, while others are hit hard with respiratory distress or pneumonia. The elderly population and those with underlying health issues such as compromised immune systems, diabetes, heart conditions, and respiratory problems are at highest risk. Children and healthy adults tend to experience mild symptoms.
The most common COVID-19 symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
The CDC urges people to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any of the above symptoms AND have come in contact with an infected person or traveled to one of the affected countries (China, Iran, Italy, Japan, and South Korea).
Diagnosis and Treatment
The CDC is currently conducting tests on individuals with a doctor’s order. They are working alongside state governments to expand testing resources to keep up with the demand and rising number of cases. Keep in mind that if you truly believe you have COVID-19 to call your doctor for testing instructions and avoid going to the office.
There is no a vaccine for Coronavirus, and it could be another year or two before we see one. Antivirals like the ones used for the flu are ineffective. Only the symptoms of COVID-19 can be treated, and recovery is dependent solely on the strength of a person’s immune system.
Preventing COVID-19
It really boils down to common sense when it comes to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Basic hygiene practices will make a huge impact. First and foremost, WASH. YOUR. HANDS. This means thoroughly scrubbing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. To make sure you’re getting the job done, sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
Here are some best practices directly from the CDC.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes
- Follow recommendations for facemasks (Don’t wear them if you are well. They should only be worn by those who are sick and healthcare providers.)
Another very important thing to do after experiencing any type of illness is to replace your toothbrush so you don’t re-infect yourself or spread germs.
At Berger Dental we value the health and well-being of our patients. If you are sick, please call and reschedule your appointment. If you have any questions or concerns regarding Coronavirus, you may call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.