A Global Outbreak! How to stay protected from the deadly Coronavirus?

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Latest Update:

According to a journal report published by ‘Antimicrobial Chemotherapy’, dated, March 20, 2020, a disease modifying drug called the Hydroxychloroquine, is highly recommended to prevent the progression and infection of COVID – 19. It is yet a hypothesis but its strong biochemical mechanisms are most likely to confer its ability to supress the disease and infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. Thus, careful clinical examination is being conducted urgently on this matter. Doctors, across the globe propose HCQ as a better therapeutic medicine than the others. Also, the same is easily accessible in China. 

In terms of further development, the Indian Council of Medical Research and the National Task force for Covid- 19, recommends the use of hydroxychloroquine for the treatment of the novel disease. The drug has been approved by the Drug Controller General of India, who along with the Advisory Board suggests that the patients with COVID-19 positive, must remain in isolation, self monitor their health and must follow all the other recommended health measures such as washing of hands, respiratory etiquttes, etc. However, if the person develops any other symptoms, apart from those of COVID-19 like dry cough, fever and breathing difficulties, after the drug is prescribed and ingested, the patient must seek medical assistance immediately.

No doubt, it is a relief to hear that hydroxychloroquine is said to be the most effective for Covid-19, nevertheless, it must be only be consumed once prescribed by a registered medical practioner. A dose of 400mg twice a day on a day 1 and 400mg once weekly for the next 7 weeks, is allowed for Healthcare practioners who are involved in cases of COVID-19; whereas, for the people showing no symptoms (asymptomatic) 400mg twice a day on day 1 and 400mg once weekly for the next 3 weeks dosage is allowed.

Every news channel on the television has an update or news coverage on this outbreak. The Coronavirus has become a global pandemic in a matter of months, with 1,53,517 positive cases and 5,735 deaths globally, as of 15th March 2020. With everyone so focused on the rising fatalities, proper information as to how this virus is spread and its prevention is lost. But we can fill you in on that so you can take a deep breath and worry a bit less about this pandemic.

A few preventive measures:

1. Wash your hands frequently

Like any other virus, your hands will be the first to house and spread viruses to other parts of your body, like your mouth, and other people as well. So make sure to wash your hands with soap regularly for at least 20 seconds. Keep a hand sanitizer on you at all times and use it frequently.

2. Maintain a social distance

Since the COVID-19 virus is spread largely via droplets released by sneezing and coughing, it is best to maintain a distance of 3 feet or 1 metre between yourself and the person next to you, especially if that person is sick, coughing, or sneezing. Stay at home and go out only when absolutely necessary.

stay away from mass gatherings

3. Respiratory hygiene

This goes without saying, but you should always cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze, whether you have the virus or not. It is a basic precaution that can aid tremendously in preventing the spread of this virus.

maintain a respiratory hygiene

4. Use a face mask at all times

Put on a face mask every time you step outside your house and/or visit a public or crowded area. Face masks are the most effective way of preventing the virus from entering your system as COVID-19 virus is too big to pass through the fabric.

5. Keep spaces clean and disinfected

The virus can be transferred when you come in contact with contaminated surfaces. Since the virus can survive on a surface for a few hours, it is recommended to disinfect all the frequently touched spaces like counter tops, electronic devices (phones, laptops), desks, doorknobs, handles etc. with a 70% alcohol solution or other EPA-registered household disinfectants.

6. Boost your immunity

Since a vaccine is yet to be developed,  the one step to keep your system safe is to give it the proper tools to fight. Eat food that is rich in vitamin C or incorporate vitamin C tablets into your diet. 

7. Homeopathic medicines –  Ocimum Sanctum and Arsenicum Album

A homeopathy immunity booster, called the Ocimum Sanctum, although not a proven cure, can aid in preventing an infection from spreading inside the body. It is basically extracted from ‘tulsi’ leaves. Experts have identified a combination of plant extract and concentrated alcohol, or ‘Mother tinctures’ of ocimum sanctum, as they have termed it, which can act against the novel coronavirus, depending on the symptoms. Also, you can consume Arsenicum Album ie, more like a viral shield to the virus. It is considered to be one of the most important remedies in Homeopathy. It is advisable to drink lemon water and amla water during regular intervals of the day. 

What are the common symptoms of the Coronavirus?

In the unfortunate event of you or your loved ones catching the virus, look out for symptoms and seek medical help immediately if you notice any of the following signs. 

The symptoms range from mild, which include fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath, to serious emergency warning symptoms like pain and/or pressure in the chest, difficulty in breathing, and bluish lips and/or face.

How does the virus spread?

Although the virus isn’t airborne, it can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes which may come in direct contact with a healthy person or land on a surface and spread to people who touch these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. 

The more knowledge you have about this virus and the disease, the better chance you have of protecting yourself and your loved ones. There is a lot of misinformation out there that only leads to anxiety and panic. A lesser known fact about this virus is that it cannot survive in temperatures above 26° C, and in ultraviolet rays. The fatality rate has dropped significantly within the past couple of months (from 3% to 1.4%), and 80% of all cases are mild.

We hope you make use of the points mentioned above and stay clear of this virus. Stay safe and stay healthy! 

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