A virus called SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19. This infection can provoke mild to severe respiratory problems, even death. Check below the best methods to prevent this infection:
- Wear a mask, especially during times of high transmission
- Avoid sick people
- Wash regularly your hands with soap and warm water
- Stay 6 feet apart
- Get vaccinated
What is Coronavirus?
A group of viruses that provokes respiratory conditions in humans is called coronavirus. The “corona” name comes from the crown spikes on the virus surface. Some examples of coronaviruses that cause diseases in humans include severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and the common cold.
In addition, a new strain of coronavirus was reported in China (Wuhan) in 2019. After that, it spread to the entire world.
How Do You Get COVID-19?
Usually, a person gets the virus through the mouth, eyes, or nose. After that, it travels to your nasal passages and the mucous membrane of the throat. The virus attaches to cells and starts multiplying, moving to the tissues in the lungs. Once the virus reaches the lungs, it can spread to other parts of the body.
How Does the New Strain of Coronavirus Spread From One Person to Another?
Commonly, the virus travels from one individual to another through the air. It often occurs when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, sings, or breathes near you. If you inhale these droplets, you can get infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
How Long a Person is Contagious?
In case someone has COVID-19 it may take several days to start experiencing the symptoms. During this time, a person is considered contagious. A person is no longer contagious approximately 10 days after symptoms start. Check below for some tips to avoid COVID-19:
- It is advised to maintain a distance of about 6 feet from other people.
- You should also wear a mask that covers the mouth and nose, especially when you are near other people.
- Regular hand washing is recommended. In case you do not have soap, use a hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol at least.
- You should not stay in crowded spaces for long periods and open windows to get outdoor air as much as possible.
- If you feeling ill and experience symptoms, it is recommended to stay self-isolated at home because it may be COVID-19.
- You should also disinfect regularly the surfaces that you have touched.
Who is Most at Risk for Getting COVID-19?
- People over 60 years old, especially with certain existing health conditions or a weakened body’s defense (immune system).
- Those who were in direct contact with a person who has laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. In some cases, even 15 minutes with an infected person within 6 feet is enough to get the virus.
- If you traveled or live in places with an ongoing active spread.
How Soon I Will Develop the Symptoms and Recover After Becoming Infected with SARS-CoV-2?
The incubation period ranges between 2-14 days but in most cases people experience symptoms after 5 days. Therefore, the symptoms vary among people and can be mild to severe. Roughly 80% of people with COVID-19 noticed mild symptoms only.
Additionally, in case you get a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 after 2-3 months you were positively diagnosed, it is considered a reinfection. However, before omicron reinfection was possible but rare. Omicron was first time reported in 2021 in South Africa. Thereafter, it spread in the whole world quickly. This coronavirus type was able to escape the body’s defense and reinfections occurred more than ever before.
Furthermore, as the virus continues to mutate, reinfections are possible. Vaccination is the best way to get protection against severe diseases caused by COVID-19.
Symptoms
The symptoms usually fluctuate among patients because it depends on the severity of the health condition, existing diseases, prescription and nonprescription medication use, and others. Check below some examples:
- Cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Body or muscle aches
- Loss of smell or taste
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
In addition, the symptoms appear within 2 weeks after an individual gets the virus. Although children experience the same symptoms they are mild compared with adult symptoms. Those who experience pre-existing severe health conditions are more likely to develop COVID-19 complications.
You should immediately call 911 if you or a loved one experiences any of the following symptoms. Examples include:
- Breathing problems
- New confusion
- Persistent chest pain
- Bluish face or lips
- Inability to wake up from sleep
This article does not contain all possible symptoms. That’s why you should contact a doctor if you experience either symptoms listed above or any others.
Diagnosis
Commonly, healthcare professionals diagnose COVID-19 with a laboratory test. They collect a sample of saliva or swab your nose or throat and send them for laboratory tests.
How Long Should I Self-isolate After Positive Test for Coronavirus?
It is advised to self-isolate until the following criteria occur, according to CDC recommendations. Examples include:
- Has 5 days since the first symptoms and they are improving.
- Have passed 24 hours without fever and any fever-lowing medicines.
While you are staying at home, you should avoid direct contact with family members. Keep a 6 feet distance from others and wear a mask. Moreover, it is advised also to wash frequently the hands and disinfect the shared surfaces.
In most cases, retesting is not needed after the self-isolation period. However, consult with your doctor about recommendations for testing.
All criteria listed above do not apply to you in severe COVID-19 cases. A severe case of this condition usually appears due to a weakened immune system and it is recommended to talk with your doctor about your situation.
Furthermore, it is recommended to quarantine for five days if you are in contact with a person with COVID-19. The five-day quarantine is required if you have not been fully vaccinated or have passed more than 6 months from the last vaccination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What treatment methods are available for COVID-19?
The treatments usually are different among people because it depends on the COVID-19 symptoms someone experiences. Examples include:
- Supplemental oxygen
- Antiviral medications
- Infusion of monoclonal antibodies
- Mechanical ventilation
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
Can vaccinated people still get COVID-19?
Yes, but the chances are very low. However, no vaccines are 100% effective, which means they do not eliminate thoroughly the risk of infection. Consult with your doctor for more details.
Should I wear a face mask?
According to the CDC, they recommend wearing a face mask in the following cases. Examples include:
- If you are in public
- In case you are sick but cannot avoid other people
- If you carry for someone who has experienced COVID-19
- You are at higher risk of developing severe diseases or living with someone who is
Ask your healthcare professional if you have any questions.
