Coronavirus: What Is It?
By Stephen R. Farris
By now you've probably heard about the new virus outbreak that has resulted in outbreaks in China. It's been dubbed the coronavirus. It's usually a virus that affects certain species of animals, and it's rare that humans may catch it from them. Currently, the virus is being spread from human to human. Research is ongoing and the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the virus as a public health emergency, due to -- in a nutshell -- international travel.
The coronavirus is pretty common since its symptoms are similar to the common cold, but more recently, there have been a couple of serious strains that have caused concerns worldwide. Some of those strains have even resulted in death in worst case scenarios.
Coronavirus symptoms can be, but not limited to the following:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Breathing difficulties
Symptoms don't usually start to show until a few days or so after exposure to the virus. Like most viruses, there are precautions you can take.
Washing Your Hands
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), you should wash your hands frequently. They recommend using a hand soap and water, or if that's not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an acceptable practice too.
No Touching
The CDC also recommends not touching your face, nose or eyes with dirty hands. So if you've been working outside, sharing a computer keyboard or smartphone, or using your hands to open and close doors, then it's best to clean your hands before wiping your eyes, scratching your nose or anything associated with touching the facial area.
Stay Home
It doesn't make you any tougher by going to work or school if you are feeling under the weather. In fact, I'm positive that your fellow students, teachers, boss and/or co-workers would rather you stay home. It's probably the best thing you can do, rather than coughing or sneezing on them or around them.
Cover Up
Speaking of coughing and sneezing, always cover your mouth when coughing and if you feel the need to sneeze, grab a tissue or use a handkerchief to keep from spraying those germs into the air.
Clean, Then Clean Some More
Always make sure to clean your work area, whether it's at home or the office. Wipe down those computer keyboards and landline phones with disinfectant. Use disinfectant on doorknobs, countertops, any spot where people may have contact with.
Like the old saying goes, it's better to be safe than sorry.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Renton, Wash.