Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a novel coronavirus that was first identified in Wuhan, China.

Currently, six strains of coronaviruses have been identified. The strain that spread rapidly worldwide was previously unknown and considered a new strain, referred to as a “novel coronavirus.” It was later officially named COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019).

 

Symptoms of COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019)

 1.Fever

 2.Sore throat

 3.Dry cough

 4.Runny nose

 5.Shortness of breath

These symptoms are similar to those of influenza or the common cold. In some cases, complications such as pneumonia may occur. Doctors may perform additional tests, such as a chest X-ray, which may reveal lung inflammation. In severe cases-especially in later stages of infection-the condition can become life-threatening and may lead to organ failure.

 

High-Risk Groups for COVID-19 Infection

 - Young children (though symptoms may be less severe than in the elderly)

 - Elderly individuals

 - People with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or chronic lung disease

 - Individuals with weakened immune systems or those taking immunosuppressive medications

 - People who are significantly overweight or obese

 - Individuals who have traveled to high-risk countries (e.g., China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Italy, Iran, etc.)

 - Those who work closely with or care for COVID-19 patients

 - People whose occupations involve frequent contact with foreigners, such as taxi drivers, hospital staff, airline crew, and related professions

 

Protect Yourself and Others from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

 - Avoid close contact with individuals who have symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, shortness of breath, or sore throat

 - Avoid traveling to high-risk areas, especially Wuhan and other regions in China with outbreaks

 - Be cautious when touching unclean surfaces that may be contaminated

 - Wash hands regularly with soap or alcohol-based gel for at least 20 seconds

 - Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands

 - Avoid close contact with animals without proper protection

 - Eat properly cooked and clean food, use serving spoons, and avoid consuming exotic or wild animals

 - Maintain good health by exercising regularly and getting adequate rest

 - If you develop symptoms within 14 days after returning from abroad, seek medical attention promptly and inform the doctor about your travel history-even if the country visited had no reported cases

 - Healthcare workers or those caring for COVID-19 patients should wear masks or protective eyewear to prevent exposure to infectious droplets from respiratory secretions

 

 

source : Muangloei Ram Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team