Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.
Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
It appears the Wuhan City outbreak was initially linked to a large seafood and animal market (which has since been closed), suggesting a similar zoonotic origin outbreaks of SARS & MERS-CoV. Increasing evidence demonstrates the link between the COVID-19 and other similar known coronaviruses.
(CoV) circulating in bats, and more specifically those of the Rhinolophus bat subspecies.
Both Chinese and external expert groups are working on trying to identify the animal source of this new virus.
Most often, spread from person-to-person happens among close contacts (about 6 feet).
The primary mode of transmission is through respiratory droplets from infected individuals which people sneeze or cough or exhale.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
From an object or surface with viral particles on it (then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands)
The incubation period for COVID-19 (i.e. the time between exposure to the virus and onset of symptoms) is currently estimated at between two and 14 days.
Fever
Dry cough
Shortness of breath
For the evaluation of patients who may be ill with or who may be exposed to COVID-19.
If in the past 14 days since first onset of symptoms a history of either:
No specific treatment for COVID-19 infection is currently available.
Clinical management includes prompt implementation of recommended infection prevention and control measures and supportive management of complications, including advanced organ support if indicated.
ANY PATIENT WHO FITS INTO THE ABOVE CRITERIA MUST
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub if your hands are not visibly dirty.
When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue - discard tissue immediately into a closed bin and clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Hands touch many surfaces which can be contaminated with the virus. If you touch your eyes, nose or mouth with your contaminated hands, you can transfer the virus from the surface to yourself.
If you have mild respiratory symptoms and no travel history to or within China, carefully practice basic respiratory and hand hygiene and stay home until you are recovered, if possible.
To maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever.
Handle raw meat, milk or animal organs with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices.
Facemask should be used by people who show symptoms of 2019 novel coronavirus, in order to protect others from the risk of getting infected.
CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to the People's Republic of China and other countries with the current infection outbreak.
Apply a palmful of the product in a cupped hand, covering all surfaces
Rub hands palm to palm
Right palm over left dorsum with interlaced fingers
Palm to palm with fingers interlaced
Backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked
Rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice-versa
Rotational rubbing, backwards and forwards with clasped fingers of right hand in left palm and vice-versa
Once dry, your hands are safe and clean
Wet hands with water
Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces.
Rub hands palm to palm,
Right palm over left dorsum with interlaced fingers and vice-versa
Palm to palm with fingers interlaced,
Backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked
Rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice-versa,
Rotational rubbing, backwards and forwards with clasped fingers of right hand in left palm and vice-versa.
Rinse hands with water,
Dry hands thoroughly with a single use towel,
Use towel to turn off faucet