Let's learn about COVID-19: Keep these things in mind to face it without fear (Coronavirus & COVID-19)

We all get a little scared when we hear the name COVID-19 , don't we? We know how much this pandemic has changed our lives and how much fear it has caused for our loved ones. But isn't it better to know exactly about this and be prepared for anything than to be afraid? So today, let's talk about what this COVID-19 is, how to protect yourself from it, and what to do if you get sick, in a simple way that you can understand.

What exactly is COVID-19?

Simply put, COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2 . It mainly affects our respiratory system, that is, our nose, throat , and lungs .

Think of these coronaviruses as a big family. Some members of that family (viruses) cause us minor illnesses like the common cold . But there are also some more serious members of this family. You may have heard of MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Similarly, SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, is also a bit more dangerous member of that family.

This virus changes over time. We call them variants . You may have heard of names like Alpha, Delta , Omicron . Some of these new variants can spread more quickly than the original virus and can be more severe.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

COVID-19 symptoms can vary from person to person. While some people may experience mild symptoms and recover, others may experience severe symptoms that require hospitalization. Let's take a look at the main symptoms.

In some cases, this disease can lead to more serious conditions such as pneumonia, heart disease, and liver problems. Also, our body's immune system can overreact to the virus. This is called cytokine storm (cytokine release syndrome) . This can damage our organs.

Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention

Who is most likely to be affected by this disease? (Risk Factors)

Although anyone can get COVID-19, some people are at higher risk of developing severe illness.

• People over 60 years of age
• People with chronic kidney disease
• People with lung diseases such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
• Obesity
• Heart disease (Heart failure, Coronary artery disease)
• Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus)
• High Blood Pressure
• People with weakened immune systems due to cancer, HIV, or other causes
• Pregnant mothers

If you have a situation like this, you need to be more careful.

How is the virus transmitted?

COVID-19 is mainly spread from person to person . The virus is in tiny droplets that come out of an infected person's respiratory tract when they talk, cough, or sneeze. If a healthy person breathes in these droplets, the virus can enter the body.

Also, if you touch a surface (e.g., a table, doorknob) that has the virus on it and then touch your face, nose, or mouth with that same hand, you can get the virus. That's why it's important to wash your hands often.

What do you do if you suspect you have it too?

If you have symptoms like fever and cough, don't panic.

1. Self-isolate: It is best to stay in a separate room away from the rest of the family. Use a separate bathroom.

2. Get tested: You can get a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) .

3. Talk to your doctor: Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and seek advice.

4. If you have difficulty breathing: As mentioned earlier, if you have severe symptoms, go to the ETU without delay.

What should we do to protect ourselves from the virus?

"Prevention is better than cure," they say. So staying safe from this virus is the best thing to do.

• Get vaccinated: Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect against severe illness and death. Get the booster doses your doctor recommends.
• Wear a mask: Wearing a mask correctly, especially in crowded places and on public transportation, can reduce both the spread of the virus and your risk of infection.
• Wash your hands frequently: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you are outdoors, use an alcohol-based sanitizer .
• Maintain social distancing: Keep at least one meter away from others. Avoid unnecessary travel and crowded places.
• Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Keep your home clean: Clean frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, switches, tables) with disinfectant.

What are you doing as treatment?

There is no specific "cure" for COVID-19 yet. Treatment is based on symptoms.

• Mild symptoms: If you have mild symptoms, your doctor will probably tell you to rest at home, drink plenty of fluids, and take medication like paracetamol for fever.
• Severe symptoms: If the disease becomes severe, doctors will hospitalize the patient and administer oxygen, steroid medications such as dexamethasone , and other specialized treatments.