This article explains the coronavirus family, the most common COVID symptoms, and how to prevent the spread of infection.
What is Coronavirus?
This term does not refer to a single virus, but rather a broad group of coronaviruses that infect humans and animals. They are named for their crown-like appearance under a microscope. The severity of infection varies, ranging from simple common colds to acute respiratory infections.
Some of the most prominent strains include:
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV): Discovered in April 2012, it caused a severe illness that led to the death of half of those infected.
- Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19): Appeared in late 2019 and spread rapidly across the globe.
Details of COVID Symptoms
Both older and newer strains share a set of basic signs, although the intensity differs from person to person. Common COVID symptoms include:
- High body temperature (fever).
- Coughing and sneezing.
- Runny or inflamed nose.
- Headaches and throat pain.
- Muscle aches and shortness of breath.
- Diarrhea.
The Link Between Animals and Transmission
Some studies indicated the presence of antibodies for MERS-CoV in blood samples from camels, while they did not appear in samples from cows, goats, or sheep. Although a link exists between the virus and camels, evidence varies on whether they are the primary source of human transmission, as many infected individuals had no proven direct exposure to animals.
Prevention and Handling Animals
Because the primary source of some strains has not been precisely identified, the following measures are recommended:
- Avoid touching sick animals or birds.
- Wash and sanitize hands and change clothes and shoes after handling animals or their products.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and ensure drinking water is clean.
- Use alcohol-based sanitizers or soap and water to wash hands frequently.
- Cover the mouth with tissues when coughing or sneezing and dispose of them immediately.
When to Visit a Doctor?
You should seek healthcare immediately if warning signs appear, such as:
- Severe shortness of breath.
- Persistent fever and acute cough.
- Severe muscle pain accompanied by diarrhea.
- If you suspect an infection, it is advised to wear a mask and avoid leaving home until a diagnosis is made.
FAQ
What COVID symptoms are going around now?
Common signs include fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and sometimes diarrhea. The intensity varies by individual and strain.
How does a person contract this virus?
Investigations continue to uncover the exact primary source and method of infection. For the novel strain, transmission via bats was suggested as a possibility, though not definitively proven.
Is there a treatment or vaccine?
Yes, a vaccine for the coronavirus was developed approximately one and a half years after the novel strain began spreading.
Does the coronavirus spread from person to person?
Yes, human-to-human transmission has been proven and was evident very quickly with the novel coronavirus strain.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice or an accurate medical diagnosis.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team