COVID – 19

Outline

·      What is covid – 19­­­­­­­

·      Symptoms

·      Precautions

·      Medications

·      Safety measures

 

      What is Covid-19?

Coronavirus disease is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 viruses. These are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to severe disease. A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not previously been identified in humans. 

The coronavirus disease was first found in the seafood market in Wuhan city, China during mid-December 2019, and it has now spread to nearly 215 countries and due to this millions of people lost their lives. The first covid case in India was reported on January 27th 2020, in Kerala.

·     How it spreads?

The virus can be spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, speak, sing, sneeze, or breathe.

 These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. You can be infected by breathing in the virus if you are near someone who has COVID-19, or by touching a contaminated surface and then your eyes, nose or mouth. The virus spreads more easily indoors and in crowded settings.

 

SYMPTOMS

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:

Ø Fever

Ø Dry cough

Ø Fatigue

Ø Nasal congestion

Ø Sore throat

Ø Headache

Ø Conjunctivitis (also known as red eyes)

Ø Loss of smell or taste

Ø Chills or dizziness

Serious symptoms:

Ø Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath.

Ø Loss of speech or mobility, or confusion.

Ø Chest pain.

 

Steps to follow when you have serious symptoms:

 

Ø If you have serious symptoms, immediately seek medical attention.

Ø Call covid helpline toll-free number 1075.

 

PRECAUTIONS

Ø  Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1metre) even if they don’t appear to be sick.

Ø Wear a mask in public, especially indoors or when physical distancing is not possible.

Ø  Choose open well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.

Ø  Clean your hands often, use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.

Ø Cover your nose and mouth with a bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Ø Get vaccinated when it’s your turn. Follow the local guidance about vaccination.

 

MEDICATIONS

Ø Isolate yourself in a room for 21 days.

Ø Use a triple-layered mask when your family members or caretaker enters the room.

Ø Wash the mask frequently.

Ø Take rest and drink fluids in order to maintain hydration.

Ø Wash your hands with soap or an alcohol-based sanitiser frequently.

Ø Keep your surroundings clean.

Ø Do not share your personal items with family members (mobile, power banks, laptops, chargers).

Ø Check your oxygen saturation level with a pulse oximeter regularly.

 

     SAFETY MEASURES

Ø Always wear a mask.

Ø Maintain social distancing.

Ø Avoid group gatherings.

Ø Do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth without sanitizing your hands.

Ø Avoid travelling in public transports (bus, train, auto, cab etc.).

Ø Do not roam outside unnecessarily, try staying indoors always, step out only in case of a medical emergency.

Ø Always drink hot water.

Ø Keep good hygiene.

 

 

 

Comments