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