Around the world, countries are struggling with the deadly Coronavirus, now with 2.4 million confirmed cases worldwide and more than 170 000 deaths. In this global state of emergency, we are all doing our best to halt the pandemic, but it is definitely going to take some time, discipline and dedication. COVID-19 started its spread at the end of 2019 and is still baffling health experts who are trying to contain it.
Where It All Began
This new strain found its way from China, where it first originated, to almost all corners of the Earth.
Although not certain, Chinese health authorities believe that the outbreak most likely started in a seafood market in Wuhan, China, dealing in the illegal trade of wildlife. It is assumed that bats or snakes are the most likely culprits. China tried to stop the virus from spreading, but it was too late. Since the city of Wuhan has a lot of universities and the outbreak was very close to New Year ’s Day there was no stopping it.
People started traveling all around China and the rest of the world without knowing that they are infected. It took almost a month before the World Health Organisation (WHO) heard about the first reports of a previously-unknown virus behind a number of pneumonia cases in Wuhan. The biggest problem was that the virus was spreading fast and very easily. All it took is one sneeze to transfer the virus from one person to another.
The Symptoms
If you notice symptoms such as fever, dry cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties in general, you should seek professional medical assistance immediately. More severe cases can lead to pneumonia, organ failure and ultimately, death. However, likewise, you may be carrying the virus without experiencing any symptoms during its incubation period of up to 14 days, although most of those infected experience worsened health within a period of about five days.
What’s most important, especially during a pandemic outbreak, is not to panic. A dry cough and a sore throat may just be the symptoms of a common cold, and you should not rush to the doctor’s office if such symptoms do not persist. Staying at home is of utmost importance in order to prevent the spread of the virus. This kind of situation in which social distancing is advised would be the perfect time to get some assistance from an online doctor, so you can set your mind at ease and stay safe at home. Telehealth is a very new, but very promising way of getting health services online, and according to opencolleges.edu.au we have much to look forward to.
Safety Measures
It is advised to stay home as much as possible, especially if you are not feeling well. Considering the fact that you can help the spread of the virus even if you are not feeling sick just emphasizes the need to remain indoors. Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, wipe down surfaces with disinfectant and cover your mouth if you cough, preferably not with your hands. When you’re out in public, wear a face mask, especially if it is hard to keep a safe distance from others, and avoid touching your face. It is always a good idea to have a hand disinfectant handy or a pair of gloves. Remember to wipe your doorknobs clean and properly dispose of your mask and gloves once you’ve used them.
Since this virus is usually deadly to older people, make sure to stay away from your parents and grandparents. Also if you know anyone that has diabetes, asthma or any other lung problems, stay away from them. It’s not just about saving your life, it’s also about saving the people around you. We know it’s hard not to see your parents for a few months until this pandemic is over, but the best way to show them how much you love them is to keep your distance.
Social Distancing
Limited contact is one of the main safety measures, but as we all know firsthand, it can be extremely challenging. We have to resist strong urges to go out into the world, especially if the weather outside is sunny and tempting. There should be no socializing, no going out with friends trips to the cinema, lazy afternoons strolling through the city, shopping, gym, it all needs to stop. The risk is just not worth it.
This is the time when we have to stay calm and accept things as they are and follow the instructions set out by medical professionals. We are not stuck at home, but safe at home. It is advisable to dedicate yourself to activities you enjoy most which will make the time go by much faster. Instead of mourning the loss of your freedom, see it as an opportunity to finally read that book that you had sitting on the shelf forever, finish that puzzle or enroll in an online course you just couldn’t find time for.
Work on yourself and enjoy the time with your family that you might have not had the chance to see that often otherwise. Try to keep yourself and your family healthy. You can try cooking something new or doing everyday exercises with the people that are going through this pandemic with you. You can do many creative things with your friends via video call.
Do a group call with your friends and have dinner together or play a game. There are many ways to keep yourself busy in these scary times. But, there is one very important thing you need to know. If at any point you start feeling depressed, please don’t be afraid to ask for help. Call a doctor or thy calling one of many hotlines where you can talk to a professional and get the help you need.
All things come to an end, and with great discipline, patience, awareness and understanding, we’ll get through this as well. Perhaps we’ll come to appreciate things we have been taking for granted and life after this whole daunting experience will appear that much sweeter. Keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe.
