What is a Coronavirus?
A coronavirus is a kind of common virus that causes an infection in your nose, sinuses, or upper throat. However, most coronaviruses are NOT dangerous.
When did it first appear?
Coronaviruses were first identified in the 1960s, but we don't know where they come from. They get their name from their crown-like shape. Sometimes, but not often, a coronavirus can infect both animals and humans.
When did the most recent outbreak start?
China first reported the outbreak in Wuhan on Dec. 30, 2019.
How does the Coronavirus spread?
Most coronaviruses spread the same way other cold-causing viruses do: through infected people coughing and sneezing, by touching an infected person's hands or face, or by touching things such as doorknobs that infected people have touched.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of most coronaviruses are similar to any other upper respiratory infection, including runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and sometimes a fever.
How to decrease your chances of getting a Coronavirus?
There is no vaccine for coronavirus. To help prevent a coronavirus infection, do the same things you do to avoid the common cold: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Keep your hands and fingers away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid close contact with people who are infected. You treat a coronavirus infection the same way you treat a cold.
How many people have been diagnosed with the virus, and how many have died? (At this current time).
According to European CDC, the majority of the confirmed cases (11,818) are in China. Another 134 are confirmed outside of China in 23 countries. These include: Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Russia, Finland, Spain, Sweden, United States, Canada and Australia. All reported deaths have been in China.
Is there a vaccine?
There is no vaccine, but the National Institutes of Health is working on one and hopes to begin testing in several months. That testing would be for safety. If it’s safe, there would be testing to see how well it works.
How is it treated?
There is no specific treatment for the virus. Patients are generally given supportive care for their symptoms, such a fluids and pain relievers. Hospitalized patients may need support with breathing.
