What is the COVID & Do You Have It?

As the fear of the coronavirus and its symptoms sweep the globe, it’s important to know how to recognize it.

There are currently over 70 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the US and over 1,775 Chinese coronavirus deaths. As cases reach the thousands, we must be prepared to diagnose and treat this threat. The first thing to know is that the coronavirus is that the current, dangerous threat is called 2019-nCoV, now referred to as COVID-19, calling it just the coronavirus is like saying it’s a sickness. Coronavirus is a category, not the specific illness. Most coronaviruses are very weak and simply cause the common cold.

So what is COVID-19

A mainly respiratory illness, the coronavirus can present like a viral form of pneumonia. It’s most common symptoms are cough, fever, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, those with a compromised or weak immune system can develop more serious symptoms like bronchitis or pneumonia.

How does the virus spread?

It is currently believed that this coronavirus comes from bats in Wuhan, China. When the people and travelers ate the region’s delicacy they became infected and from this the disease has been able to spread person-to-person. Though it is not yet certain how the coronavirus spreads, the current theory is that it moves like any respiratory virus, through sneezes, coughs, and other inhalable properties.

How to know if you have the coronavirus

While its symptoms are very close to that of the cold, flu, or pneumonia, there are definitive ways to diagnose the COROVID-19. It has a distinctive look. Using chest CT scans, radiologists can effectively and reliably diagnose the coronavirus from safe distances. NightHawk Radiology is a world wide telemedicine company where the doctors that can read scans like these can diagnose the Coronavirus and recommend treatment plans from a safe distance. Without risking infection.

How to prevent contracting the COVID-19

It may sound silly, but common cold prevention practices are your first line of defense. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. When in public and after touching anything that may be contaminated keep your hands away from your eyes and mouth. Wearing masks, gloves, and eye protection when out and about can also lower your risk. Do not re-wear masks or gloves and be sure to dispose of them completely. Next bathe after going out and wash all clothes in hot water. The cleaner you can keep your environment, the more likely you are not to catch it.

Treating the coronavirus

As of now there is no cure for the COVID-19 coronavirus. Scientists and doctors are working around the clock to find the right antivirals for treatment. Currently, the practice being used is called supportive care. This means a treating of the symptoms and supporting the body as it works to fight the sickness. Essentially it’s a course of fluid replacement, oxygen therapy, and pain relief.

Conclusion

It’s a scary time. The COVID-19 coronavirus is spreading and it has no cure. But there are ways to avoid it, diagnose it safely, and treat it. This is not the time to panic, it’s the time to be smart. Be cautious. Stay away from danger zones like airports, China, and international transit. Follow the above preventative measures. And stay alert for signs and symptoms in both yourself and those around you.