Coronavirus: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

At present, there are over 1,347,000 cases of Coronavirus worldwide. Out of these cases, over 74,000 have died. In the United States, there are 367,000-plus cases of COVID-19 and over 10,000 deaths. Coronavirus has the world in a state of panic. While there is no current cure or vaccine for Coronavirus, there are ways to avoid and combat Coronavirus. 

What Is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus comes from a family of viruses that cause illnesses. These illnesses range from mild colds to severe diseases, like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). One of the best ways to avoid Coronavirus is to understand how it spreads. Many agree that COVID-19 is spread through aerosols, which are droplets that are filled with the virus. These droplets are spread when a person with Coronavirus coughs or sneezes. If these droplets enter another person’s body, they have a high chance of becoming infected. New studies show that Coronavirus can survive on surfaces for days and for hours in air particles. 

Symptoms of Coronavirus

Signs of Coronavirus can present as mild or severe symptoms. The mild symptoms of Coronavirus include fever, shortness of breath, coughing, and breathing problems. In more severe cases, the infection causes severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, pneumonia, and death. 

Coronavirus Treatment 

While there is no antiviral medication to treat COVID-19, there are ways of treating the symptoms of the virus. These methods of treatment include pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), cough medication (or syrup), rest, and drinking plenty of fluids. More severe symptoms will require hospital treatment. 

How to Avoid Coronavirus 

The best way to avoid Coronavirus is by washing your hands often with soap and water. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you use hand sanitizer, make sure it has at least 60% alcohol. The other way to avoid Coronavirus is by practicing social distancing. When social distancing, avoid contact with others and stay at home. If you have to go out, make sure there is a six-foot gap between you and others. 

Coronavirus Update 

In terms of a Coronavirus update, government officials have shut down non-essential businesses and firmly insist that citizens stay inside. The main goal of this is to keep hospitals from overflowing with patients who have (or think they have) Coronavirus. Obviously, this is a very scary, serious situation. Currently, there are 41 vaccines being worked on, many of which are being tested on willing participants. Vaccines, however, can take up to two years to produce. On the bright side, over 286,000 people have recovered from Coronavirus. 

What to Do If You Think You Have Coronavirus

If you think you have Coronavirus, you should call your doctor and stay home (unless you are getting medical care). Isolate yourself from other people and animals in your household. While there have been no reports of animals becoming sick with Coronavirus, it is still suggested to avoid contact with them. If you are going to visit your doctor, make sure you call ahead and inform them that you may have COVID-19. This way, the doctor’s office or emergency department can prepare themselves to avoid exposure to the virus. 

Urgent Care Services in Walnut Creek 

Infectious disease experts at BASS Medical Group are currently working on providing updates on COVID-19. If you are in need of urgent care services in Walnut Creek, BASS Medical Group has ER trained physicians, a laboratory, and an imaging center. Whether you are looking for a vaccination, routine care, or help with an injury, BASS Urgent Care will have staff at the ready. To set up an appointment ahead of time, call us at (925) 329-3718, or book with us online.