Countries around the world are closing borders and putting citizens under lockdown in a bid to contain the rapid spread of the new coronavirus outbreak, labelled a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Here are the facts explained in detail- From prevention, transmission and the symptoms. 

How coronavirus is transmitted-

It is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that has never been encountered before. Like other coronaviruses, it has come from animals. China’s national health commission confirmed human-to-human transmission in January. There is now extensive human to human transmission across the world. 

Precaution to avoid Coronavirus- 

It is essential to maintain social distancing - including remaining one metre (three feet) away from anyone who may be coughing or sneezing near you; wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap; cover your face with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing, and then throw the tissue in a waste bin; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; clean surfaces and objects you touch often; seek medical attention if you have symptoms; and avoid direct contact with live animals in affected areas. 

Symptoms of coronavirus- 

According to the WHO, the most common symptoms are fever, fatigue and a dry cough. Some patients may experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, a runny nose, sore throat or diarrhoea.

Current estimates of the incubation period - the amount of time between infection and the onset of symptoms - range from one to 14 days. Most infected people show symptoms within five to six days.

However, infected patients can also be asymptomatic, not displaying symptoms despite having the virus in their system.

The elderly, and those with underlying medical problems such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. 

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