The rapid spread of a new type of coronavirus (COVID-19) has put our country (and the whole world) in panic mode. With the significant number of registered cases steadily increasing, everyone wants to do everything possible to protect themselves from the danger that has occurred.
First of all, it should be noted that it is extremely important to be informed so that one knows what one is up against and what one can do to help both oneself and those around one. In this article, we will introduce you to what the new coronavirus is and what measures you can take to protect yourself.
Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that belong to the so-called RNA viruses. The name 'coronavirus' is derived from the Latin 'corona' and refers to the characteristic appearance of the virus particles, which have a fringe resembling a royal crown or the sun's corona.
The truth is that we have encountered coronaviruses many times in our lifetime, as they are one of the main causes of seasonal viruses and flu. The newly discovered virus is called a novel coronavirus (because it is the first time a person has encountered it) and causes the disease coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The spread of the virus can occur by the airborne route if we are in the vicinity of an infected person who, when sneezing or coughing, releases droplets containing the virus. It has also been found that the virus can persist for up to several hours in an external environment, for example on a surface. This makes it likely that a person will come into contact with the virus particles even if there are no infected people around.
Most people infected with the new coronavirus can experience mild respiratory symptoms and recover without needing specific treatment. The contingent that may develop more severe symptoms are older people, as well as people with co-morbidities such as cardiovascular, chronic respiratory diseases (bronchitis, COPD, asthma, etc.), diabetes, oncological diseases.
The clinical picture seen in this disease can range from mild to moderate and in some cases severe.
As mentioned, there are many cases where the infected person has no symptoms or develops mild flu-like symptoms including fever, cough, fatigue and shortness of breath. These are the cases in which a mild form of the disease develops and no specific treatment is required.
In the subsequent unfolding of the clinical picture, in which the above symptoms are observed, but they also include difficulty in breathing, prolonged pain and heaviness in the chest, difficulty in walking, bruising of the lips. These symptoms require prompt contact with a medical professional and timely medical attention.
One of the complications of this disease is the development of bilateral pneumonia, which can be fatal.Other symptoms that are not common but are seen in some patients may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Wash your hands often!
As already mentioned the virus can last up to several hours on some surfaces. Where does Russian come from infection? If you touch such a contaminated surface and subsequently inadvertently touch your face , eyes, nose there is a high probability that some of the virus particles will get into the mucous membranes where the environment is favorable and conducive to their multiplication.
It is a good idea to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Keep your distance
It is advisable to keep a distance of at least 1 meter from other people. Why you need to keep your distance, because as when a person coughs or sneezes, small droplets are released from his nose and mouth, which may contain virus particles. Thus, you may inhale them and consequently develop the disease.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
As already mentioned, man touches many surfaces in his daily life. Some of them may have virus particles on them that can contaminate the hands. Once contaminated, the hands can carry these particles to the nose, mouth and eyes, from where they can enter the body.
Maintain respiratory hygiene
Respiratory hygiene is observed when, when coughing or sneezing, a person covers his or her face with a folded elbow or a paper handkerchief, then disposes of it in a closed trash can.
The use of a medical mask is recommended if you have respiratory symptoms (coughing or sneezing), to protect others. If you have no symptoms, there is no need to wear a mask.
If a mask is worn, it must be fitted correctly to ensure its effectiveness and to avoid the risk of transmitting the virus.
But what is the right way to wear a mask? Let's take the example of the commonly used three-layer surgical masks:
This is the side of the mask that can be blue, green or some other color. This layer acts as a barrier that protects you from the environment. This layer is water repellent, which means it can prevent blood or any other bodily fluids from getting into the mask.
This part is made of absorbent material. The role of this layer is related to the fact that it does not allow body fluids (saliva,droplets, etc.) to pass through the mask. This part prevents you from spreading viruses and bacteria to others.
The middle layer has a filtering capacity, it is made of micro and nano fibers that stop microbes from entering or exiting the mask.
Now that we are familiar with which layer plays what role, we will note that the correct way to wear this type of mask is with the colored side out and the white side towards the mouth.
The new species of coronavirus COVID-19 is an ordeal that affects our country and the whole world. Fighting the virus is everyone's responsibility. Be disciplined and follow the recommendations of the experts. Only together can we tackle it. Take care of yourselves, your loved ones and others.
