Last updated March 26, 2020.
A lot of information has been shared about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Like with any developing news story, there is a lot of fear and misinformation circulating.
We want to do our part to spread reliable information that can help protect your and your community against the spread of the coronavirus.
So what can you do to prevent the spread of coronavirus?
Below is a helpful fact sheet that you can share with colleagues, coworkers, friends and family. Our information comes directly from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s coronavirus FAQ page and from the World Health Organization. We also share a few facts about the virus to help you better understand this strain of coronavirus.
How can you prevent catching and spreading coronavirus?
Most experts say that you can avoid catching and spreading coronavirus by following very common prevention techniques. This includes using correct hand-washing procedures, covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing, and staying away from sick people.
They also say the best way to avoid the 2019-nCoV infection is to stay away from anyone who could have it or has been diagnosed with the new illness.
Social Distancing (and self-isolation)
Social distancing is also a prevention measure urged by the CDC and all health institutions to effectively stop the spread of COVID-19. It’s an important prevention measure that should be practiced as much as possible.
What is social distancing? Social distancing is deliberately keeping your distance from others to avoid spreading a disease. That means skipping social gatherings, avoiding public spaces, avoiding crowded areas, etc. Cancelations of sporting events and concerts are examples of social distancing on a large scale. You can check out this Instagram guide that breaks down what social distancing is all about.
Another example of social distancing is organizations encouraging employees to work from home and self-isolate.
Self-isolation (staying at home) can feel a bit demanding. We’re not often used to staying home for lengthy periods of time. Being productive, active and engaged without leaving the house is not easy and takes a bit of creativity.
Venngage employees have recently started to work remotely. To help us manage our day-to-day, our leadership team put together this handy infographic on handling self-isolation:
Coronavirus Fast Facts
The 2019-nCoV or coronavirus outbreak has been labeled a global health emergency by the World Health Organization. This declaration lets the WHO coordinate a response to the outbreak across international borders and put certain travel restrictions in place if necessary.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have been asking about the coronavirus.
Please keep in mind that some information is subject to change as the situation develops. To stay on top of the most current information, check the WHO and CDC websites.
What is coronavirus?
Coronavirus is a common virus that can cause upper respiratory infections in your throat, nose or sinuses. Most coronaviruses are not very dangerous to humans if treated correctly, but the 2019-nCoV infection has led to over 8000 deaths worldwide (data sourced March 19, 2020).
The CDC has reported that this new infection can also cause a fever, coughing or shortness of breath in people.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
The symptoms of coronavirus include coughing, a runny nose, sore throat, and a fever. Because these symptoms are common with other illnesses, if you have any of these symptoms and have had any contact with someone who has recently traveled to China, you should see a doctor.
The 2019-nCoV infection can also cause a fever, cough, and shortness of breath in infected people.
How does coronavirus spread?
Coronavirus is a new disease and therefore, we are still learning how it spreads.
According to the CDC, we understand the coronavirus to be spread by:
- Close person-to-person contact (within about 6 feet of each other)
- Through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- Contact with contaminated surfaces
How is coronavirus diagnosed?
Your doctor or health professional can usually diagnose coronavirus with a blood test, but the 2019-nCoV infection can only be diagnosed by the CDC at this time.
How long can 2019-nCoV take to show symptoms after exposure?
Experts are saying that it takes between 2 and 14 days for the symptoms of 2019-nCoV coronavirus to be seen.
What is the treatment for coronavirus?
Coronavirus is usually treated like the common cold with lots of rest and fluids. Doctors are approaching the the 2019-nCoV infection in a similar way by helping to relieve the symptoms and support critical organ functions.
Is there a vaccine for coronavirus?
There currently is no vaccine for the common coronavirus or the 2019-nCoV infection. Like we said above, you can avoid transmitting and catching the coronavirus by following common prevention techniques.
Where did this coronavirus outbreak originate?
It is currently believed that the outbreak originally came from Wuhan, China.
Who is the most susceptible to coronavirus?
Coronavirus doesn’t discriminate and like the common cold, anyone can catch it through contact with another sick person.
Anyone could also catch the 2019-nCoV infection through contact with someone who has the infection. But it’s most dangerous to the elderly or people with underlying medical problems.
In fact, Chinese officials have said that 80% of deaths came from people over the age of 60, that also have some underlying health condition already.
Can you get coronavirus from cats, dogs or animals?
There are many different viruses in the coronavirus family that are common in animals, however these viruses rarely make the jump to humans.
If you think you could have the 2019-nCoV infection, you should avoid interacting with pets or animals. At this time, there is no evidence that COVID-19 can spread from animals to humans. You do not need to have your pets tested for COVID-19, and it is not recommended.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals and are only sharing information from sources we believe to be reliable. Visit the CDC and WHO websites regularly to stay up to date on new information.
