There is a lot of speculation about the origins of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Some people believe that the virus came from a snake and there are a few references to this theory.
One theory is that the virus originated in a snake market in Wuhan China. This theory is based on the fact that many of the first people who became ill with the virus had visited the market.
Another theory is that the virus may have come from a laboratory in Wuhan. This theory is based on the fact that the virus is similar to other viruses that have been created in laboratories.
It is also possible that the virus came from another animal such as a bat or a pangolin. However there is no evidence to support this theory.
The most likely scenario is that the virus originated in an animal and then spread to humans. It is still not clear exactly how this happened.
Whatever the origins of the virus it is clear that it has caused a lot of illness and death. It is important to remember that the vast majority of people who get the virus will recover from it.
What is the name of the disease caused by the novel coronavirus?
COVID-19
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever tiredness and dry cough.
Other symptoms include aches and pains nasal congestion runny nose sore throat and diarrhea.
These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually.
However some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell.
Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment.
Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing.
Older people and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease diabetes chronic respiratory disease and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.
How does COVID-19 spread?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness and it spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes or when someone comes into close contact with an infected person (within about 2 meters).
Who is at risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19?
People of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19).
However older people and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease diabetes chronic respiratory disease and cancer are more likely to develop severe illness.
Can COVID-19 be prevented?
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19.
The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the COVID-19 virus the disease it causes and how it spreads.
Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not touching your face.
The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes so it’s important that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example by coughing into a flexed elbow).
What are the risk factors for COVID-19?
The risk factors for COVID-19 include:
-Being in close contact with someone who has the disease
-Living in or traveling to an area with a high number of cases
-Working in a health care setting
What is the incubation period for COVID-19?
The incubation period for COVID-19 is typically 5-6 days but can range from 1-14 days.
What should I do if I think I have COVID-19?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 such as a fever cough or difficulty breathing you should:
-Call your doctor
-Stay home and avoid contact with other people
-Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
-Wash your hands often
What is the treatment for COVID-19?
There is no specific treatment for COVID-19.
However many of the symptoms can be treated and the majority of people will recover without needing hospital treatment.
Can COVID-19 be cured?
There is currently no cure for COVID-19.
However many of the symptoms can be treated and the majority of people will recover without needing hospital treatment.
How long does it take to recover from COVID-19?
Recovery from COVID-19 usually takes 1-2 weeks for mild cases and 3-6 weeks for more severe cases.
How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
You should also avoid close contact with people who are sick and avoid touching your face.
What should I do if I have COVID-19?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 such as a fever cough or difficulty breathing you should:
-Call your doctor
-Stay home and avoid contact with other people
-Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
-Wash your hands often
What is the mortality rate for COVID-19?
The mortality rate for COVID-19 is currently estimated to be around 3%.
Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?
There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.
