5 Facts About Coronavirus | 3 Min Read
In early 2020, after an outbreak in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, the world was exposed to the treacherous virus, Covid-19. The pandemic has quickly overwhelmed the world and life as-we-know-it has come to a standstill. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus has tainted millions of people physically, mentally, and economically across the globe.
So, what exactly is the Coronavirus?
Coronavirus comes from a family of viruses that causes mild diseases like common cold besides leading to life-threatening respiratory diseases like SARS and MERS.
Now that you are familiar with the basic definition, the article will habituate you with some fundamental facts about this global virus and thereby, enable you to make informed decisions regarding your health and well-being.
- Coronavirus is mutating and can be dangerous.
Over 200 genetic mutations have been identified in the SARS-COV-2, which leads to Covid-19. Although not all variations are severe or worrisome, "D614G", a particular mutation strand is proving to be lethal with its global transmission which has affected over 7 million individuals and counting.
- Hydroxychloroquine : a boon or a bane?
Experts suggest that Hydroxychloroquine must not be relied on to treat COVID-19 and its usage should be stopped immediately as HCQ has caused cardiac arrhythmia in a few patients, potentially leading to cardiac death.
- Are smokers less susceptible to Covid-19?
A research conducted in France suggests that smokers are 80% less susceptive to get infected by COVID-19 than non-smokers. An authorized nicotine patch test has also been conducted on a small group of people to examine its credibility. However, it is important to acknowledge the dangers that come with smoking. This in no way encourages smokers to sprint out and take a quick fag. It is highly recommended to stay at home and be safe in these precarious circumstances.
- Are young people immune to COVID-19?
All the younger adults out there, presuming that you are immune to COVID-19, there is some sorry news for you as well. Although it was initially believed that people over the age group of 60-65 years are more susceptible to COVID-19, recent developments have condoned that belief. The latest trends show that more and more youngsters are falling prey to this disease and getting severely affected. The virus can cause strokes in people as young as 18 years old also. Do not take this disease indifferently and while away your youth. The younger generation is not invincible but is as prone to get sick, if not more, as the oldies.
- How long can the pandemic last?
Experts from all over the world have proposed that COVID-19 could last for as long as 2 years and will only come to an end when at least 60%-70% of the entire humankind is immune to it. In short, herd immunity may be our only chance of survival. Therefore, stock up fellows, we have a long and arduous journey ahead with the end nowhere in sight.
While it is important to know about the virus and its lethality, it is equally pertinent to follow the recommended preventive measures issued by health experts to keep the virus from engulfing you.
What other interesting facts are you aware of regarding Covid-19? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below to help your fellow citizens be as informed about the shortcomings of the virus as you are!
