Medically reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Shera.
What is the Coronavirus?
According to WHO, Coronavirus is a dangerous new strain of virus that has recently been identified. This virus causes many different symptoms, that can range from the common fever and cold to more serious complications like severe respiratory failure.
The virus is transmitted via animal and human contact.
What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?
The incubation period of the virus is estimated to be 10-14 days. The symptoms of the virus are as follows:
- Cold with fever and cough
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
- Pneumonia
- Respiratory failure
- Kidney failure
The virus can cause devastating lung injury and can be fatal.
Where have cases of Coronavirus been reported?
The virus has mostly been found in China, specifically the Wuhan province. As of January 24, Chinese officials said at least 25 people have died, all in Hubei Province, of which Wuhan is the capital. That is also where most of the 830 reported cases are.
Beyond China, Thailand has reported four cases, while South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and the United States have each confirmed one.
All the cases involve people who had either come from Wuhan or been there recently.
What is being done to stop the spread of the virus?
There is no vaccine available for the virus.
The Chinese authorities have sealed the province of Wuhan, by blocking all flights, trains and cars from entering and exiting the state. They have begun mass disinfection as well.
Doctors suggest that one should wear a mask and regularly wash and sanitise their hands.
Airports all across the globe are also conducting a screening process to curtain the spread of the virus. Meanwhile, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health, Dr Zafar Mirza, said all passengers arriving into Pakistan from China will have to undergo a strict screening at Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore Airports.
