FAQ on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

FAQ on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Frequently Asked Questions on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Disease Description

What is COVID-19 (novel Coronavirus)?

Coronaviruses (CoV) are 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). Recently, an outbreak of a new coronavirus disease now called COVID-19. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new strain discovered in 2019 and has not been previously identified in humans.

Was new coronavirus deliberately created or released by people?

Neither, the coronavirus was deliberately created nor released by people. The virus undergoes genetic changes and the disease outbreak occurs only when a virus presents in animals such as pig, bat or bird undergoes changes and passes to humans.

How does COVID-19 spread?

Like the flu, COVID-19 can be transmitted from person to person. Whenever an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, they may generate droplets containing the virus. These droplets are too large to stay in the air for long, so they quickly settle on surrounding surfaces. The infected person can spread virus through coughing and sneezing, close personal contact especially in a household workplace, health care centre,restaurant or during travelling etc., contact with an object or surface with viral particles on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

How long does it take for symptoms of the COVID-19 to appear?

The symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as two days, or as long as 14 days after exposure.

Are few people more at risk than others?

Elderly people and patients with health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are the high risks of developing severe symptoms. There is limited information is available regarding the people groups which are prone to a more severe outcome following infection with 2019-nCoV.

Are children also at risk of infection?

According to the China study the disease development is relatively rare and mild in children. Approximately, 2% of COVID-19 cases were observed among the age-group under 18 years.

Medical Diagnosis and Treatment

When should I seek medical advice?

If you are experiencing any symptoms then, please consult your physician or Healthline number as soon as possible.

Is there any vaccine available for a novel coronavirus?

Currently, there is no vaccines available for novel coronavirus disease. It would take a number of years for a new vaccine to be developed. However, many companies are conducting clinical trials for developing the vaccine for the treatment of novel coronavirus disease.

Is there any treatment for a novel coronavirus?

Currently, there are no FDA approved therapies for COVID-19. Only supportive therapies such as oxygen therapy, fluid management and antivirals are recommended for the treatment of clinical symptoms associated with the novel coronavirus. Supportive care for vital organ functions are recommended for the management of severe cases.

Preventive Measures

What can I do to protect myself?

Follow the standard recommendations to reduce exposure and transmission of Coronavirus

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds. Additionally, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Standard household cleansers and wipes are effective in cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

What should I do if I have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?

You should inform the public health authorities in your area who will provide guidance on further steps to take. Meanwhile, if you develop any symptoms, you should immediately call your healthcare provider for advice, mentioning that you have been in contact with someone with COVID-19.

Are face masks effective in protecting against COVID-19?

If you are infected, the use of face masks may reduce the risk of you infecting other people. In fact, it helps the non-infected person to keep a distance (at least one meter) from an infected person which can add to the prevention of infection. However, there is no scientifically evidence found which showed that face masks would effectively prevent one from being infected with the virus. If you are not infected or sick then there is no need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and not able to wear a facemask). Hence, it is possible that the use of face masks may even increase the risk of infection due to a false sense of security and increased contact between hands, mouth, and eyes

When should I stay at home?

If you feel sick, you should stay at home. Meanwhile, if you are experiencing severe symptoms you must consult from the physician as soon as possible.

 Can I go overseas? Are there any travel restrictions?

Before planning any international trip, you may check the Safe Travel website for the latest advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

Can Mosquitoes Transmit the Coronavirus?

Mosquitoes and ticks can�t spread all types of viruses. There are not any studies demonstrating the spread of COVID-19 or other similar coronaviruses through mosquitoes or ticks. It is necessary for the virus to replicate inside the mosquito or tick to pass to a person through a mosquito or tick bite.

Can the COVID-19 virus be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates?

As per the several studies, the COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in all areas including areas with hot and humid weather.

Can I get coronavirus from a package delivered or brought from China?

No, you cannot get coronavirus from a package delivered or brought from China. Coronavirus can be transmitted by droplets from an infected person�s sneeze or cough and other sources.

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