Corona virus-why is second opinion important? The disease can play havoc and result into a big shock with multi organ failure or death.
The Novel Corona Virus belongs to the Beta Corona virus family which is an animal virus, originating from bats. However, it can also be transmitted in Camel, Cats, Cattles and other livestock. It is usually spread among animals and animal to human transmission is also possible. COVID -19 has taken a shape of pandemic due to possible human to human transmission, thereafter. MERS and SARS are other viruses which has had global outbreaks in the past.Corona virus is a respiratory illness characterized by fever, coughing, and shortness of breath, sneezing, or Myalgia.
A history of travel form the infected zone along with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection is more than sufficient for treatment for corona virus infected patients. While, these are the early features similar to upper respiratory tract infection, which is common place, but the disease can play havoc and result into a big shock with multi organ failure or death. The mortality rate is between so far only 2 % with respect to SARS which had 10%. But as more and more people are getting infected the mortality might increase.High risk population includes old age people, pregnant women,patients with severe illness and children and it is ideal to get vaccinated with the influenza vaccine.
Why is second opinion important?
Second medical opinion becomes must as the Corona virus outbreak grows and with most of the countries facing a complete lock down. India in jitters with truant corona virus disease, let’s understand this pandemic outbreak a little better. And while at it, let’s also make ourselves doubly sure and not fall victim to the fear factor.
The number of people affected by the new corona virus currently stands at over a lakh (1,35,000)around the world affecting 124 countries. About 4937 people have lost their lives due to the infection and over 6000 are critical. The outbreak began in a province of China and was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 30 January 2020. In India, the number of confirmed cases has gone past 75 with one death and thousands kept under close watch.
Currently it is the flu season and one may find the same preliminary symptoms, like upper respiratory tract infection, running nose, fever etc.
1. There should be no case of panic, if one has not visited the infected area or people from that region. Having said, people should always take a second opinion in these matters.
2. High risk population includes, pregnant women and children and it is ideal to get vaccinated with the influenza vaccine.
3. Preventive germ actions like washing hands, covering face while coughing and sneezing.
4. Maintain cleanliness in house.
5. Avoid travelling to place where the infection is present.
6. People who are sick and suffering from any respiratory illness should report to the nearest healthcare centre.
For the very first time in India, Foreign OPD™ – India’s first and only medical healthcare brand that enables face 2 face™ second medical opinion consultations ,will provide outpatient and awareness support for the people suspected by Corona virus. Foreign OPD sees that the best of the best and world-class 2nd medical opinion can be made available to patients suffering from Coronavirus.
Dr. Inder Maurya
Founder & CEO, Foreign OPD™
