Coronavirus: Facts, Symptoms And Prevention From Deadly Virus

India has three confirmed cases of coronavirus, which has so far claimed over 400 lives in China. The three positive cases for the virus have been reported from Thrissur, Alappuzuha and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. Over 2,800 people are under observation in the state for the novel coronavirus infection and no new cases have been reported. At least 2,826 people are under surveillance in the state as of Thursday, a press release quoting the minister said. Of this, 2,743 are under home quarantine and 83 are in isolation wards of various hospitals, a press release quoting the minister said tonight. 

1. What is coronavirus?

The coronavirus is a large family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory syndromes, but the virus that has killed people in China is a novel strain and not seen before. It has been named because of the crown shape due to protrusions around it.

2. Pangolins may have spread coronavirus from bats to humans

Pangolins could be responsible for the spread of the deadly coronavirus in China, scientists said on Friday after they found the genome sequence separated from the endangered mammals 99 per cent identical to that from infected people. The genome sequence of the novel coronavirus strain separated from pangolins was 99 per cent identical to that from infected people, indicating pangolins may be an intermediate host of the virus, according to a study led by scientists at the South China Agricultural University.

A person being scanned for coronavirus. (Image Credit: IANS)

3. Common symptoms of coronavirus

Common symptoms of the novel coronavirus strain include respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties, according to the WHO.

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4. How can people protect themselves?

• Experts believe that it is very important to cover your face with a mask or tissue while sneezing and coughing.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap.
• Avoid direct contact with live wild or farm animals in affected areas.
• Avoid close contact with people having flu-like symptoms.

With PTI Inputs