I have debated on posting about this topic for several reasons. First, I am already tired about hearing about the coronavirus. Second, the world is in a state of panic over this pandemic and I do not want to add to the chaos. However, I am now writing because some facts and concerns need to be clarified using reputable sources.
What is the coronavirus?
There are many different strains of the coronavirus, of which 7 cause human illness. The one in concern today is the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), previously known as SARS-CoV-2.
What are signs and symptoms?
The most typical signs and symptoms in order of prevalence are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The incubation period (time in which the disease creates symptoms) is anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks. A majority of cases are mild and DO NOT require hospitalization. 1 in 5 people develop serious illness and around 2% of the cases have been fatal.
How do we test for the COVID-19?
Testing is increasingly becoming more available locally using respiratory specimens. Most testing is done officially by the CDC, taking 3-5 days for final results. If other respiratory pathogens are positive (influenza), then the COVID-19 is ruled out.
How is it treated?
There is no specific medication, cure, or vaccine approved for the COVID-19. Antibiotics are not effective because this is a virus, not a bacteria. Treatment is supportive- Tylenol, decongestants, rest, hydration, etc. People are advised to call the doctor’s office and if not severe, to remain home. Anyone who exhibits symptoms, but would not normally see medical care should remain home, even if they suspect the virus. Serious cases are those that require breathing tubes or assistance, and need trained hospitalized care.
Let me reiterate. Patients who present to the ED with mild symptoms are sent back home. Patients who cannot breathe are admitted into the hospital. These patients are placed on airborne and contact isolation in a negative pressure room. Health care professionals are required to wear a gown, gloves, N95 mask, and face shield when performing medical care.
Though no current medication has been specifically approved for the COVID-19, China has trialed the medication chloroquine phosphate (an anti-malarial) which was successful for SARS.
Who is at risk?
Currently, the risk for transmission is still low for the general population. High-risk populations include older adults, males, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, lung disease, and an elevated D-dimer (lab shown to be elevated in blood clotting disorders).
How to prevent the spread?
Handwashing and sanitization are the most important… why are we out of toilet paper and paper towels?
If you are sick and do not need hospitalization, stay home. The closures of schools and businesses is a way to “flatten the curve” of transmission. Large, crowded areas allow the reparatory droplets to spread through the air and infect multiple people. That is why avoiding crowds is important.
The COVID-19 is an airborne virus, so surgical masks are not effective. Surgical masks are only useful for very large particles, such as to prevent a surgeon from sneezing or coughing directly into an open wound.
Warm weather has not been proven to halt this virus.
What is the current situation?
As of March 14, 2020… Globally, there are 142,539 confirmed cases and 5393 deaths.
Final thoughts…
Yes, this is a serious pandemic. No, we do not need to panic. No, we do not need to stock up on unnecessary items like toilet paper and paper towels.
It is important to respond, not to react. Wash your hands, avoid large crowds, stay home if you are sick, and have peace over panic.
Resources
https://reference.medscape.com/slideshow/2019-novel-coronavirus-6012559
https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
Until next shift,
Shania