Causes, Symptoms and Prevention of Corona Virus

Definition of Corona Virus (COVID-19)

Corona virus infection is a disease caused by the corona virus and causes the main symptoms in the form of respiratory problems. This disease is in the spotlight because of its emergence at the end of 2019 for the first time in Wuhan, China. The location of its appearance for the first time has made the coronavirus also known as the Wuhan virus. Besides China, the coronavirus also spread rapidly to various other countries, including Japan, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and even to the United States. Causes of Corona Virus (COVID-19) The cause of Corona virus is a single stranded RNA virus that comes from the Coronaviridae group. Named coronavirus because of its surface shaped like a crown (crown/corona). Another virus that belongs to a similar group is the virus that caused Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) several years ago. However, the corona virus from Wuhan is a new virus that has never been identified in humans before. Therefore, this virus is also referred to as the 2019 Novel Coronavirus or 2019-nCoV. Corona viruses are commonly found in animals – such as camels, snakes, farm animals, cats, and bats. Humans can be infected with the virus if there is a history of contact with these animals, for example on farmers or traders in animal markets. However, the explosion in the number of cases in Wuhan, China shows that the corona virus can be transmitted from human to human. The virus can be transmitted through droplets, which are very small water particles and usually come out when coughing or sneezing. If the droplets are inhaled or in contact with the corneal layer of the eye, a person is at risk for contracting this disease. Although anyone can be infected with the corona virus, those who are elderly, have chronic diseases, and have low immune systems are more susceptible to this infection and its complications. Symptoms of Corona Virus (COVID-19) Coronavirus symptoms vary, ranging from the common cold to severe respiratory disorders such as pneumonia. Corona symptoms that are commonly experienced by those who have a coronavirus infection are: High fever with chills dry cough Have a cold Runny nose and sneezing Sore throat Hard to breathe Symptoms of the corona virus can get worse quickly and cause respiratory failure to death. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) symptoms of 2019-nCoV virus infection can appear from two days to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Corona Virus (COVID-19) Diagnosis Coronavirus infection is generally known through the symptoms and physical examination that the patient complains of. After that, the doctor will perform a number of supporting tests to help confirm the diagnosis. The supporting examinations include complete blood count, blood clotting, kidney and liver function and virological examination. In addition, specimens from the patient's nose and pharynx (throat) will also be taken using a swab technique. Similarly, preparations of sputum and, if necessary, bronchial fluid (smaller airways). Through this examination, it can be known whether the patient's illness is caused by a virus or other causes. Meanwhile, the patient's blood plasma will also be examined to find the RNA of the corona virus. For radiological examination, a chest x-ray and chest CT scan may be performed. Most patients will show a picture of cloudiness in both lungs. Complications of Corona Virus (COVID-19) Patients infected with coronavirus may experience respiratory symptoms such as severe pneumonia, such as high fever and shortness of breath. Complications such as respiratory failure, acute heart failure, and secondary infections caused by other germs can occur if the condition is not treated immediately or if the disease worsens very quickly. Corona Virus (COVID-19) Treatment Today, no antiviral therapy has been shown to be effective against the 2019-novel coronavirus infection. Several anti-viruses that have successfully treated MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV infections before, have not shown satisfactory results to overcome this new coronavirus infection. Patients infected with the corona virus will receive supportive therapy to reduce symptoms. For example anti-pyretics to lower body temperature and fluids to prevent dehydration, as well as oxygen therapy in patients who experience shortness of breath. In severe conditions, ventilatory support can be given to the patient to support other vital organ functions. Corona Virus (COVID-19) Prevention Although the symptoms of coronavirus disease resemble other respiratory diseases such as pneumonia or influenza, so far there is no vaccine that can prevent the transmission of coronavirus disease. The provision of pneumonia vaccines and influenza vaccines cannot provide protection against the spread of corona virus infection. The best way to avoid coronavirus infection is to take active precautions. The CDC recommends that everyone take actions such as: Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds If it is not possible or soap and water are not available, clean your hands using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer Avoid touching your nose, eyes or mouth, especially if your hands are still dirty Avoid contact with people who are sick Stay home when you are sick Cover your mouth with a tissue or bend your elbow when you cough or sneeze Avoid direct contact with farm animals Avoid traveling, especially to areas with cases of coronavirus infection Avoid eating meat that is not fully cooked. Maintaining nutrition by eating nutritionally balanced foods, drinking adequate amounts of water, and getting enough rest can also help keep the body in shape and avoid corona virus infection. Everyone who experiences symptoms resembling a corona infection, don't hesitate to immediately consult a health worker to determine the cause.