COVID-19 is one of the single most important terms of 2020. What was once a little known virus is now on everyone’s lips. The virus has had an enormous effect on people all over the globe. Many people have gotten sick. Others have watched and worried as someone they love has been stricken. Children have been sent home from school for months. Adults have faced financial losses and layoffs. Given the incredible impact of the virus on people all over the world, it’s no wonder that people are hungry for even more information. There are a few basic things everyone should know about COVID-19 right now.
Opening Up May Take Time
Government officials around the world have plans for opening up the community again. These kinds of efforts may vary by place. In states and countries with fewer cases, it is likely that such efforts will take place quickly. Other places that have more cases may be far more cautious about allowing their communities to come out of lock down. Everyone should take some time to find a good local source of information about COVID1-19 in their area. Many communities officials are offering weekly and even daily updates about changes in local and state policies.
New Discoveries are Constant
Science rarely stands still. This is particularly true when it comes to issues related to public health. Scientists all over the world are spending time studying the virus. There are still many questions that need to be answered. Scientists believe that certain populations are more at risk for really bad cases. People who fall into certain groups such as those over 65 or those with certain medical conditions such as heart disease need to be especially careful. At the same time, COVID-19 may also pose a very dangerous risk to those who do not fit into such risk groups. Those who are not sure what kind of risks they personally have should consult with a doctor. A doctor who knows the patient’s medical history can help anyone determine what risks they have and what precautions they need to take.
Prevention is Imperative
The best way to survive this current epidemic is by adhering to all necessary sanitary measures. Everyone should wear face masks when required. Washing hands with soap and water is also crucial. Water is not enough. Soap will kill COVID-19. Make sure the soap gets on all parts of your hands as you wash them. This includes the palm and the tops of your hands. Allow the water to run for at least twenty seconds. Reciting the alphabet twice is a good way to ensure twenty seconds have passed. If there is no soap, hand sanitizer can serve just as well. All surfaces should be rubbed down after any brief use. This includes areas that people touch frequently. Indoor door knobs and outdoor door knobs should be cleaned at least once a day. The same is true of other objects that people touch a lot such as cell phones, computers, desks and all light fixtures.
If You Get Sick
Everyone should know both the most common and uncommon symptoms of COVID-19. Many people can be infected without knowing it. Many others, however, will have certain signs indicating infection is a possibility. Those infected will usually have a fever, feel more tired than normal and often have a persistent dry cough. Other symptoms can also indicate infection. People may feel short of breath. They may even lose their sense of smell and taste.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is best to contact your doctor as soon as you can. In most cases, the doctor will urge you to simply stay home and isolate yourself from others. If you have more severe symptoms like trouble breathing consider this an emergency and seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
