10 things you need to know about Coronavirus

The Coronavirus is a topic of worldwide interest. By now, we have all heard about it in news, conversations with colleagues or in social networks. But do you really know what it is?

Here are 10 summary points that will make you more aware of it.

  1. What is the Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses belong to a wide family of viruses, which can cause everything from a common cold to more serious cases such as MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) or SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

  1. What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms are very similar to the common flu, such as fever, cough, runny nose, difficulty breathing, headache and fatigue.

  1. How long do symptoms last?

It is estimated between 1 and 13 days, however this may vary depending on the infected person. Therefore, it is recommended to follow up people confirmed with the virus for up to 14 days.

  1. What is the difference between Coronavirus and flu?

The symptoms are very similar, however they are caused by different viruses, so laboratory tests are required if it is assumed that you are infected.

  1. Can animals transmit the virus?

The exact source of the virus in animals has not yet been identified, so it cannot be determined that any animal or pet can transmit the virus to humans.

  1. Is the Coronavirus transmitted between people?

Yes, the virus can cause respiratory illness to be transmitted from one person to another through contact with an infected person. Whether the person coughs or sneezes, the virus can also be transferred through saliva or nasal secretions.

  1. What is the mortality rate?

Statistics show that 81% of cases are mild, 13.8% are severe and 4.7% are critical. In this last group, the virus reaches 14.8% mortality, which adds up to a mortality rate of 2.3%, which is more associated with the reality of Wuhan, while in the rest of the world, only 0.7% mortality is reported.

  1. Is there any treatment?

So far, they have not been able to determine specific treatment or vaccine, however medical care is focused on supporting the sick, which can see a small recovery of two weeks in mild patients and severe cases between three or four weeks.

  1. How deadly is it?

In some people it can become serious causing pneumonia or severe breathing difficulties, however, on rare occasions this disease can be fatal. People with older age or other conditions are at greater risk of being more affected by the virus.

  1. How can I protect myself?

– Wash your hands frequently with a hand sanitizer with soap and water.
– Practice good hygiene when coughing or sneezing, covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue.
– Keep your distance from people who are coughing or sneezing.
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth after touching surfaces.
– Avoid eating raw or poorly stitched animals.

So far, this is the information that is handled about this virus. We recommend that you always consult official information sources such as those of the Ministry of Health or the CCSS and always be cautious with information that is viralized on social networks or chat services.