Recently, the World Health Organization has declared a health emergency for the newly discovered and highly contagious viral infection, which is spreading globally at a fast rate from Central China.
Till now there are approximately twenty-five thousand deaths caused by the coronavirus infection and thousands of cases. Countries around the world including the United Kingdom and the US have started screening at selected airports for the disease.
In addition, other countries have either entirely stopped incoming passengers from China for the time being or are only allowing them to enter via specific airports.
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According to research on the new coronavirus, the infection is particularly dangerous for people with comprised immune systems, particularly older adults and very young children, as well as people with existent chronic health conditions.
Secondly, the virus can also be life-threatening for a healthy individual if it is not diagnosed on time. However, many countries at the moment do not have the facilities or labs with coronavirus testing.
The infection also often shows no specific symptoms that can differentiate it from a common cold. The common signs of the disease include coughing, fever, sneezing, and chills.
Therefore, health experts at the World Health Organization suggest taking preventive measures to avoid catching the virus in the first place. This includes limiting outdoor time, maintaining distance from an infected person, taking extra care of hygiene, and wearing masks.
For people with symptoms to the ones mentioned above, if the signs still remain longer than 2-3 days, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible to cut down any risk of having the infection.
It is also equally important to know about the early signs of having a coronavirus infection. Some of the symptoms to keep in mind are as follows:
Having a Fever
Like in all other viral infections, the body also develops a fever while the immune system fights coronavirus. While having a fever for a few days with a cold is a common issue in winters and flu season, it is important to seek medical attention if the fever is constant and does not go away.
Fatigue
Unexplained fatigue is one of the earliest signs of coronavirus. If the fatigue is still there after the resting, there are chances it may be due to coronavirus infection.
Coughing
Chronic coughing that does not go away is often a sign of an underlying issue, including coronavirus.
Sore throat
While having a coronavirus infection, coughing often comes with a sore throat and throat itching.
Runny nose
A runny and blocked nose is a symptom universal in all infections caused by different coronaviruses. Consult a health professional if a runny nose is not treated within 3-4 days.
Difficulty in breathing
Respiratory issues or difficulty in breathing can vary depending on the diagnosis time and intensity of the disease. Usually, they tend to worsen at a quick rate.
Sinus Pressure
Just like a runny nose, having a sinus infection or pressure is one of the earliest signs of coronavirus infection.
Loss of Consciousness
A high fever in a coronavirus infection may lead to semi-consciousness or temporary loss of consciousness.
Pneumonia
Having a coronavirus infection can also increase the risk of developing other infections, including pneumonia.
Dehydration
Dehydration is particularly common in all infections caused by different strands of coronavirus including the new one.
