The coronavirus, also referred to as COVID-19, is a worldwide pandemic that has affected thousands of people. Most people are wondering if it’s as serious as it seems, or it’s really nothing more to fear than the average flu. Below you will find the most up-to-date information on the symptoms, how to stay healthy, and what to do in the case that you don’t feel well.
What are the Symptoms of the Coronavirus?
Doctors are sharing information about the virus and from their experience most patients report a fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The symptoms range from being mild to severe as the virus has led to numerous deaths. The problem with this virus is that it can appear between two to fourteen days after you are exposed to it. This is a long incubation period that makes controlling the spread extremely difficult.
How to Stay Healthy
As of now there isn’t a vaccine to prevent the virus. The best way to keep yourself healthy during this time is to avoid being exposed to it as much as possible. While this may be difficult as you don’t know who around youhave it, pay close attention to your surroundings.
Below you will find some prevention method to help slow down the spread of the virus.
- Stay home when you are sick, even if you don’t think it’s the coronavirus
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or the crook of your arm (“vampire method”)
- Avoid contact with anyone who is sick
- Clean frequently touched objects with disinfectant regularly (phones, remotes, keys, etc.)
- Wash your hands with hot soapy water for at least twenty seconds constantly (after you blow your nose, go to the bathroom, and before you eat)
- If soap is not available, use hand sanitizer at the same frequency
To Wear or Not: The Facemask
The face mask can cause a lot of panic as people wear it unnecessarily which causes others major anxiety. If you know the science behind the facemasks, watching people work out at the gym with one may be concerning as they should be home if they are sick. Below you will find guidelines for when to wear a facemask.
Facemasks should be worn by people who show actual symptoms of the virus. This is to protect others from getting the virus. Outside of that, facemasks are only crucial for health professionals and those taking care of sick people (at home or in a healthcare facility). The Centers for Disease Control do not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask.
What if I Feel the Symptoms?
The most important step is to stay at home. It could be the common flu or a cold, so you should stay home and rest anyways. You should only leave your home if you are going to visit your medical care provider. Avoid public areas including public transportation. You should also stay away from others, including pets and animals.
Contact your doctor immediately and discuss next steps. They may want you to come in for a visit or they may want you to rest and see if it goes away within the next few days. Whatever you do, stay in constant communication with your doctor. If they fail to call you back, keep calling as the medical community is beyond overwhelmed by the virus and its effect on the population.
Respiratory Specialist in New York
If you are experiencing symptoms, contact Dr. Shukla for help. He is experienced in addressing pulmonary and respiratory issues. Instead of fearing the worse, contact Dr. Shukla and his team for medical advice and assistance on what your next steps should be.
