What is the novel coronavirus?

The novel coronavirus which carries the scientific name 2019-nCoV is a member of a large family of coronaviruses. It infects people and animals and causes illness of varying severity. The symptoms are typically moderate and include common cold, cough, fever and difficulty breathing. But in some cases, coronaviruses can cause lethal diseases such as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

How does coronavirus spread?

The virus spreads from person to person through close and longer-lasting contact. It is transmitted via the air by droplets of moisture from the respiratory tract. It mainly infects the upper and the lower respiratory tracts. People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practise cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or clothing, and wash hands).

What is the treatment of the disease?

There are no specific treatments for the 2019-nCoV infection. Infected people should undergo supportive medical care, which helps relieve symptoms. Widely available drugs are used in the care.

Will a fabric face mask protect me?

No, it will not. It works primarily to prevent exhaling diseases, not inhaling them. Face masks can stop further transmission of diseases such as influenza, which is currently on the increase. Face masks are not very effective against airborne coronaviruses and will not protect a healthy person.

Contact person: Ivana Kinkalová

Contact point:

Email: ivana.kinkalova@cvut.cz

SMS, telephone: +420 724 176 314

REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CORONAVIRUS INFECTION

• Clean hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub
• Cover nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or flexed elbow
• Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms
• Thoroughly cook meat and eggs
• Avoid unprotected contact with live wild or farm animals

 World Health Organization

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE TRAVELLING FROM AN AREA WITH THE NEW CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK AND FEEL ILL WITH FEVER, COUGH, OR DIFFICULTY BREATHING?

• If you experience symptoms of respiratory illness during the flight, inform the flight crew immediately.
• If you are already at the airport, do not leave the airport site and seek the assistance of permanent medical staff of the airport.
• If you are already at home, do not go anywhere. Avoid contact with other people.
• Contact your doctor’s office or the emergency room. Before you go there, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel to the high-risk area.
• Wash hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands!) when coughing or sneezing.

written by Státní zdravotní ústav (The National Institute of Public Health, CZ)  according to CDC, USA.