COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019: Be aware [Infographic]

In today’s infographic from PAHO (Pan American Health Organization), we want to highlight all important aspects of COVID-19 which is keeping our attention over the last 3 months.

Any outbreak of a virus similar to SARS, Ebola, or COVID-19 may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in the mental life of people not only limited to adults. Coping with stress will help people to get stronger and one simple element is the factor of understanding and having the right information.

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations and special when it comes to a virus outbreak it can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the social surrounding in your life.

What is COIV-19?

Also, know as Coronavirus Disease 2019, is a new respiratory illness that was first discovered in Wuhan, China. It is transmitted from person to person. Common symptoms are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. In various cases, it results in high fever, pneumonia, and difficulty in breathing. Symptoms may appear 1 to 12 days following exposure to the virus.

Who is most at risk of becoming seriously ill?

• People over age 60
• People with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease

Italy, now under lockdown, has been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak. It also has one of the world’s oldest populations with 60% over age 40.

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How is it transmitted?

• Through close contact with an infected person
• By an infected person coughing or sneezing
• By touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes

Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment. We can only treat the symptoms. Serious cases may require oxygen and ventilatory support.

Prepare Yourself

Make sure you get your information from a reliable source (your national health ministry, the WHO or POHA). Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based gel. Cover your mouth with the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze or use a tissue and dispose of used tissue immediately and wash your hands.

Act accordingly for prevention

• Avoid close contact with people who have classic flu-like symptoms.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid sharing cups, plates, or other personal items and disinfect all surfaces that are touched frequently.

If you have traveled to areas where COVID-19 is circulating or have been in contact with someone who has it and you experience fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Do not self-medicate.

Keep in mind, not only physical signs make us sick. A useful guide about improving mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Note: Information may change when more is known about the disease. February 2020.

#StayHome #StaySafe #WFH #WorkFromHome #SocialDistancing #PhyscialDistancing