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COVID-19

Diseases and Conditions COVID-19
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

COVID-19, short for coronavirus disease 2019, is a highly contagious illness caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Let’s delve into the specifics of this global pandemic.

Types of COVID-19

  1. Asymptomatic Cases: Some individuals carry the virus without showing any symptoms.
  2. Mild Cases: Common symptoms include fever, dry cough, and fatigue.
  3. Moderate Cases: These cases involve difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
  4. Severe Cases: Severe symptoms lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multi-organ failure.

Causes of COVID-19

  • Viral Transmission: SARS-CoV-2 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes.
  • Close Contact: Physical proximity to an infected individual or touching contaminated surfaces contributes to transmission.

Risk Factors of COVID-19

  1. Age: Older adults are at higher risk, especially those over 65.
  2. Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory issues, and compromised immune systems face increased susceptibility.

Symptoms of COVID-19

1. Fever: Elevated body temperature.
2. Coughing and Aspiration: Persistent dry or productive cough.
3. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing.
4. Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness.
5. Loss of Taste or Smell: An unusual symptom associated with COVID-19.

Preventions of COVID-19

  • Physical Distancing: Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance from others.
  • Mask Usage: Wear a well-fitted mask to reduce transmission risk.
  • Hand Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Vaccination: Follow local guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination.

Diagnosis of COVID-19

  • Testing: COVID-19 diagnosis involves polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing or antigen tests.
  • Imaging: Chest X-rays help evaluate lung involvement.
  • Blood Tests: Assess inflammatory markers and oxygen levels.

Treatment for COVID-19

  1. Isolation: Self-isolate if infected to prevent spread.
  2. Symptomatic Treatment: Rest, hydration, and fever management.
  3. Hospitalization: Severe cases require hospital care.
  4. Antiviral Medications: Remdesivir and other antivirals.
  5. Oxygen Therapy: Administered for respiratory distress.
  6. Supportive Care: Monitor vital signs and organ function.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or persistent chest pain, seek immediate medical help.