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What exactly is COVID-19?

The truth is, this is a virus that no one has ever seen before, and like other frightful viruses, this one too came from animals.

The World Health Organization describes it as a "new strain of Coronaviruses (CoV). A large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). that was discovered in 2019 and has not been previously identified in humans."

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

This is where the virus becomes both super scary, and not-so scary at the same time. The virus causes pneumonia and severely effects those that are already in poor health. On top of that, the drugs that we currently have to fight the flu are not effective.

As of now, our only defense against this virus is continued good hygiene and our body's immune system. The majority of the cases that were fatal was due to those individuals being either elderly or having underlying conditions.

Should I go for a check up if I'm coughing?

NO! Health officials are advising those with coughs or fevers to self-quarantine at home for at least seven days. Those with these mild symptoms should also avoid prolonged interaction with others, including family and friends. This advice applies to everyone, not just those returning from travels.

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Can the virus be transmitted from human to human?

YES! As you a probably aware, human-to-human transmission is how this virus is spreading so quickly. That is also why it is so important to limit human contact and interaction, especially if you feel you may have been infected.

How many people have been affected?

As of 15 March, more than 156,000 people have been infected in more than 80 countries, according to the Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering.

There have been over 5,800 deaths globally. Just over 3,000 of those deaths have occurred in mainland China. More than 73,000 people have recovered from COVID-19.

Is it really worse than the Flu?

In all reality, no one knows if it's worse than influenza. However, the flu usually has a death rate of less than one percent. To date, COVID-19 has a death rate well below one percent in the young, but over three percent in the elderly and sickly patients.

For comparison, SARS had a death rate of about 10 percent.

How to Protect Yourself, Your Family, and Others

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap. And don't forget to get under your fingernails. Also shower as often and as much as possible.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. Try to use a tissue to cover yourself as you can throw it away afterwards. In the event you do not have tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow. And again wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Seek early medical advice by phone. If you suspect that you or a loved one is exhibiting symptoms contact medical personnel. Be honest about the symptoms as well as your travel history.
  • Stay in if you think you may have been infected. If you are returning from abroad, or feel as though you may have been infected, it is advised to stay indoors for as many as 14 days. Do not venture out into public unless a licensed doctor has advised you to do so. Even then, exercise extreme caution and avoid any unnecessary contact with others. This includes talking.