Symptoms of the New Epidemic: Novel Coronavirus

As opposed to common knowledge, coronavirus is not in itself the disease that has spread fear in the minds of people across Asia, especially China that has become the epicenter of the epidemic. Coronavirus is a group of viruses that predominantly affects the human respiratory system. There have been previous instances when Coronavirus has affected human beings in the form of MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV along with several other minor respiratory ailments.

The current epidemic also called the novel coronavirus has never been reported to have affected humans at this massive scale. Since a lot of fake information has surfaced on the internet about the disease, it essential to understand that reliable information from credible sources must only be believed. World Health Organization (WHO) and other premier research institutions have made public the list of symptoms of the Novel Coronavirus. On seeing any of the below-mentioned symptoms, it is advisable to isolate the person, allowing minimum contact and to visit a doctor in due time for the necessary tests. People who have recently been to China or have been in contact with someone who had been to China have a high risk of contracting the infection.

Common signs of novel coronavirus infection include cough, fever, shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties. These symptoms may be visible during a period of 2-14 days. This virus may cause pneumonia or other respiratory complications in patients that have a weak immune system. In severe cases, organ failure may occur. The patients admitted to a hospital have more chances of surviving as they can get support for their lungs and other organs as well as body fluids. The patients that were isolated and quarantined at the right time helped in curbing the further spread of the virus to other people and also enhanced their chances for better treatment. It is essential to keep a close watch on our own health and also the health of the people around us and bring to their notice these indications.