COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that has spread and affected over 200 countries around the globe, causing the World Health Organisation (WHO) to declare this outbreak as a pandemic. In the Philippines, based on the latest update by WHO, over 400,000 confirmed cases have been reported with over 7,000 deaths. As COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease, it’s important to educate ourselves and take preventive measures to stop the spread of the virus. Read on for our breakdown of COVID-19.
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through person-to-person contact. It is transmitted through close contact with another person via the respiratory drops of an infected person, which are the small liquid particles when they talk, cough, sneeze or breathe heavily. In addition, you can also get infected when you touch an object or surface with the virus on it and then by touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Who is at Risk?
Everyone is at risk of getting COVID-19 as there are no vaccines for it. However, older people and those with underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk for developing more serious symptoms of COVID-19. Hence, people who fall into these categories need to be extra careful.
Protecting Yourself from COVID-19
As there is no vaccine currently available to protect yourself from COVID-19, it’s important to take precautions to avoid contracting the virus. During this time, it’s advised to stay home as much as possible, but if it’s necessary to go out in public, health officials have advised wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Wash your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water, and avoid touching your face area when your hands are dirty.
Importance of Social Distancing
Social distancing is one of the main ways of protecting yourself against the virus. As we are in the digital age, it’s easier than ever to conduct activities such as shopping, banking, and even buying insurance online. However, if it is necessary to show up in person, be sure to stay at least 6 feet away from others. Wherever there are restrictions in place, it’s important to adhere to them for your own safety, as well as the safety of the people around you.
COVID-19 Symptoms & Treatment
People with COVID-19 often have fever-like symptoms with a temperature range of 37.5ºC to 39ºC. In addition, an infected person may also have flu and cold-like symptoms such as breathing difficulties, dry cough, nasal congestion, as well as the loss of smell and taste. Fatigue is also commonly experienced by COVID-19 patients.
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