It's an infectious viral disease. Its spread began at the end of 2019 and became a pandemic in 2020. Drugs can limit the severity of viral infection. Most people recover without long-term effects, but symptoms may last for months in others.
The virus itself reproduces and the genetic code may change randomly in each copy. These changes are known as mutations. This may reduce the effectiveness of immunity resulting from previous infections or vaccines and therefore can recur.
Ways of transmitting the virus
The most common transmission methods of the virus are through air & close contact.
Symptoms
Symptoms appear within 2 to 14 days of exposure to the virus
Symptoms include:
- High temperature to 38 ° C or more
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fever or chills
- Body or muscle pain
Symptoms similar to a cold (e.g. sore throat, congestion, or runny nose)
In severe cases, the lungs do not function properly, the patient needs oxygen and in critical cases, respiratory failure may occur.
Risk Factors
1- If you live with someone with COVID-19
2- Prolonged presence in poorly ventilated and crowded places
3- Close contact of a person with COVID-19
4- Older persons aged 65 and over, as well as children under 6 months of age.
5- Cancer patients
6- Type I or II diabetes
7- Weakness of the immune system
8- Pregnancy
9- Thalassaemia Patients
10- Heart patients and hypertension
11- Chronic lung, kidney, or liver diseases
12- People with nervous system disease
13- Smokers
14- People with obesity
Complications
1- Loss of taste and smell may occur
2- Rash occurrence
3- Difficulty breathing or pneumonia
4- Blood clots
5- Kidney damage
Prevention
1- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
2- Use hand sanitizer (alcohol not less than 60%)
3- Maintaining physical distancing from others
4- Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
5- Wear a mask in enclosed public spaces
6- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
7- Maintain good indoor airflow
When to see a doctor?
If the result of the COVID-19 test is positive, or you notice the appearance of any of the symptoms of the infection contact your doctor.
Read More:
9 Tips to keep your teeth healthy
