Primary prevention of novel corona virus is to stop the spread through keeping self-hygiene.
Similar to the outbreak of deadly viruses like SARS and MERS in the recent past, the new novel corona has become the biggest threat mankind has seen in recent times. There is an urgent need to control the situation by various public health measures failing to which this infection is bound to become really ’Viral’. One of the major complications in accurately detecting the novel corona virus is the long and uncertain period of incubation which is around 14 days. This gives an ample time for the infections to spread rapidly. Widespread availability of diagnostic facility being the need of the hour, it is also advised to the treating doctors and other medical assistance for protection as they are highly vulnerable even during a potential case look up.
What is the new novel corona virus?
While corona virus is a common microorganism (Already known) which causes infections of upper respiratory tract and leads to pneumonia are enveloped RNA viruses which are distributed among human, animals as well as birds. Until now the two major viruses responsible for respiratory outbreaks included SARS and MERS, but the new 2019 novel corona virus that falls in the category ‘Genus Betacoronavirus’ category is profoundly detected in humans, animals and bats. While certain symptoms of corona virus are similar to that of a common cold or viral infection, it is necessary to distinguish between the two. Though symptoms in most patients may vary from being asymptomatic to even being seriously ill and need immediate medical attention, the usual symptoms include – fever, cough and running nose accompanied by shortness of breath.
Primary prevention – stop the spread
While the virus is common in different species of animals, it has now spread to humans through close contacts via respiratory droplets generated through sneezing or coughing. While there is a misconception that the virus only spreads through symptomatic infectants, many such cases have been recorded where the virus has been transmitted through asymptomatic infectants also. It is thus the foremost priority to seek primary prevention through keeping self-hygiene. Always wash your hands with soap or alcohol-based rub and seek immediate medical advice in case of flu-like symptoms for ruling out the condition. Though Indians usually do not prefer to consume under cooked or raw meat/ animal products, still avoid any type of animal product.
Is there a treatment?
First Anti-viral drug approved is Favilavir, also known as Fapilavir with existing medication and supportive treatment can provide relief. Though antidote may be developed with time constraints, any new drug developed need to undergo four phase trials. Thus, the treatment lies with the existing medications and the treating doctors who provides patients with several medications may accidentally find the best suited drug for patient stability.
Dr. Rakesh Chawla
Senior Consultant, Respiratory Medicine,
Saroj Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi
