Answers about the new Corona virus from China
- When was the clinical presence of the virus known?
On 12/31/2019, the World Health Organization was notified by the Chinese health authorities.
- Why was there immediate concern?
It was identified as a new virus and every new infectious agent raises concerns about causing a pandemic because there is no immunity in the community.
- Have there been previous coronaviruses that caused disease?
In 2003, a virus belonging to the corona family caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV, transmitted by cats) and in 2012, another virus of the same family was transmitted by camels and caused severe Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV).
- Is there person-to-person transmission of the virus and how?
Yes, through droplets of saliva during coughing and sneezing. Also, by contact with contaminated objects and then contact with eyes, nose, mouth.
- What are the symptoms?
They are indistinguishable from those of the flu and include high fever, headache, sore throat, cough, myalgia, arthralgia and respiratory distress.
- What are the most serious complications?
Pneumonia, often affecting both lungs, and respiratory failure.
- What self-protection measures should we take?
- Personal hygiene measures such as frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or alcohol-based antiseptic solution.
- Avoid contact with patients.
- Avoid contact with our hands with our mouth, nose and eyes.
- Use a tissue when coughing or sneezing and dispose of it in waste containers.
- Avoid closed and crowded spaces.
- Avoid contact with people who have returned from areas of China where the virus is endemic or from other areas and countries that have recently been described cases.
- Is there a way to make a sure laboratory diagnosis?
Yes, with molecular techniques (PCR).
- Is there a vaccine?
No, for now.
- Is there a specific treatment?
No, only supportive treatment in the Hospital.
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