Although we don't know everything about the novel coronavirus yet, it seems to spread between people who are in close contact. The exact level of contagiousness for this new strain, SARS-CoV-2, is still a bit of a mystery, but it primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Research indicates that the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 are influenced by multiple factors, including viral load and the presence of symptomatic versus asymptomatic carriers, which complicates our understanding of its contagiousness [1].
Prevention:
Currently, there isn't a specific vaccine available to prevent the coronavirus infection. So, what can we do? It's crucial to adopt the necessary steps to minimize risks. Here are some standard precautions to help protect yourself from respiratory viruses:
- Maintain hand hygiene by using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol or washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after being in public spaces.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of droplets.
- Avoid touching your face, especially the mouth, nose, and eyes, with unwashed hands, as this can introduce the virus into your system.
- Keep a safe distance from individuals exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness.
- Refrain from sharing personal items like utensils or towels with anyone who is unwell to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, as studies have shown that the virus can survive on various surfaces for extended periods [5].
- If you're feeling unwell, it's best to avoid public places, including schools and workplaces, to protect others.
Travel Plans:
Always check travel advisories before planning any international trips. If you experience symptoms indicative of a respiratory infection, such as a cold, cough, sore throat, or breathing difficulties, reach out to your doctor right away. Early detection and isolation can significantly reduce the risk of further spread [3].
Other Recommendations From WHO:
- It's wise to completely avoid raw or undercooked meat and other animal products, as they may carry infectious agents.
- If you're in an area with reported coronavirus cases, avoid contact with live animals or surfaces they may have touched in markets, as zoonotic transmission is a concern [2].
Don't Let Suspicions Go Unnoticed:
If you suspect you have symptoms of COVID-19 or think you've been exposed to the virus, speak to your doctor immediately. Be sure to provide a detailed account of your condition and travel history, and let your doctor know that your appointment is due to concerns about coronavirus. Prompt medical consultation is vital to manage potential cases effectively and prevent further outbreaks [1].
References:
- Carmelo Biondo, Elena Ponzo, Angelina Midiri, Giuseppe Bernardo Ostone, Giuseppe Mancuso. The Dark Side of Nosocomial Infections in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients.. PubMed. 2023.
- Namita Misra. A Short Review on Important Drugs Under Clinical Trial Against COVID-19.. PubMed. 2021.
- Kristal An Agrupis, Annavi Marie G Villanueva, Ana Ria Sayo, Jezreel Lazaro, Su Myat Han, Alyannah C Celis, Shuichi Suzuki, Ann Celestyn Uichanco, Jocelyn Sagurit, Rontgene Solante, Lay-Myint Yoshida, Koya Ariyoshi, Chris Smith. If Not COVID-19 What Is It? Analysis of COVID-19 versus Common Respiratory Viruses among Symptomatic Health Care Workers in a Tertiary Infectious Disease Referral Hospital in Manila, Philippines.. PubMed. 2021.
- Nick Flynn. Comment on "Intoxication by hand sanitizer due to delirium after infectious spondylitis surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic: A case report and literature review".. PubMed. 2021.
- Pan Zhai, Yanbing Ding, Xia Wu, Junke Long, Yanjun Zhong, Yiming Li. The epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19.. PubMed. 2020.