As the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 continues, Rossana Health Convoy is concerned about the impact it could have on the most vulnerable communities in poorer countries across the world. Drawing from substantial expertise and lessons learned from past disease outbreaks, we are prepared and ready to respond. Meanwhile, we have also put measures in place to protect the health and security of our staff.
What is COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. The main source of the outbreak is still unknown but, considering previous experiences of coronaviruses, it is most likely that the virus made the jump to humans from animals.
In COVID-19, the symptoms are very similar to the common cold or flu, including fever, cough, sore throat and/or lethargy. Some people develop more symptoms such as shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
It is thought that COVID-19 may be transmitted by person-to-person contact (through the air by coughing and sneezing, or through close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands) or by touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands. It is not known how long the virus can survive on different surfaces as yet.
There is no specific treatment for the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. However, many of the symptoms can be treated, and therefore, treatment is based on the patient’s clinical condition. Current analysis shows 97-98% of those infected with COVID-19 survive the illness, and 80% of those infected show no severe symptoms.
How to reduce the risk of infection?
No matter where we are, we can all minimize risk by practicing good hygiene:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water/hand sanitizer.
- Cough and sneeze into tissues or into a flexed elbow.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Wash food before eating and avoid raw or uncooked food.
- Avoid using public transport if you do develop symptoms of the flu.