Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Symptoms,Treatment & medicines
What is Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a highly infectious respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Coronavirus was first identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and has since spread globally, leading to a pandemic. The Coronavirus is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets that are expelled when an infected person talks, sneezes, and coughs. It can also be spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face.COVID-19 has had a significant impact on society, causing widespread illness, death, and economic disruption. Governments around the world have implemented measures to slow the spread of the virus, such as social distancing, travel restrictions, and mask mandates. These measures have had varying degrees of success, and there is an ongoing debate about the best way to manage the pandemic.
Symptoms of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
The symptoms of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Some people may have no symptoms at all and can still spread the virus to others. Here are The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
In severe cases, COVID-19 can cause pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), organ failure, and even death. People who are at higher risk for severe illness include older adults, people with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, and people with weakened immune systems.
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses, and not everyone with these symptoms has COVID-19. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact a healthcare provider for advice on testing and treatment.
Diagnosis of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
The diagnosis of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is typically made through laboratory testing and there are following two main types of tests for COVID-19: diagnostic tests and antibody tests.
- Diagnostic tests, also known as viral tests, are used to determine if a person is currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The most common diagnostic test is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which detects the genetic material of the virus in respiratory specimens such as nasopharyngeal swabs or saliva samples. Another type of diagnostic test is an antigen test, which detects viral proteins in respiratory specimens. Diagnostic tests are typically performed by healthcare providers or at testing centers.
- Antibody tests, also known as serological tests, are used to determine if a person has previously been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These tests detect the presence of antibodies, which are proteins that the body produces in response to an infection. Antibody tests are typically performed on a blood sample and can be done in a healthcare setting or at home using a self-collection kit.
It is important to note that while diagnostic tests are the most reliable way to diagnose COVID-19, they may produce false-negative results if the test is performed too early in the infection or if the sample is not collected properly. In addition, antibody tests may produce false-positive results if the test detects antibodies to other coronaviruses, which can cause the common cold.
Treatment for Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
There is currently no specific treatment or cure for Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care, such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Some medications, such as remdesivir and dexamethasone, have been authorized for emergency use in certain situations.
Vaccines for Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Vaccines are currently available to help prevent COVID-19. The vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials, and are recommended for most people over the age of 12. The vaccines are given in two doses, several weeks apart, and provide immunity to the virus. Vaccines are available at many clinics, pharmacies, and healthcare providers.
Prevention From Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Prevention is the best way to avoid COVID-19. The most effective measures for preventing the spread of COVID-19 include:
- Getting vaccinated against COVID-19
- Wearing a mask in public settings
- Practicing physical distancing
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoiding close contact with that person who is sick with COVID-19.
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or hanky on the inside of the elbow
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently after touching objects and surfaces.
It is important to follow public health guidelines and recommendations to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect yourself and others.
Medicines For Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Favipiravir
Remdesivir
ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Corona Virus Vaccine (Recombinant)
Whole Virion, Inactivated Corona Virus vaccine
Favipiravir+Favipiravir
Human adenovirus vector vaccine
2-Deoxy-D-Glucose
Casirivimab+Imdevimab
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) (nucleoside modified)
Molnupiravir
Bamlanivimab + Etesevimab
Nitric oxide
Nirmatrelvir
Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir
