This article provided by: Go Healthcare Staffing
Coronavirus: What is it?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), coronaviruses are a group of viruses that can cause illnesses from a cold to something more severe. They are spread through animals and humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC ) say that this new coronavirus is labeled “SARS-CoV-2” and the respiratory disease that it causes is called “coronavirus disease 2019” aka. COVID-19. What is currently being understood about the current disease, COVID-19, is based on information from other similar coronaviruses. Yet, since it is new there is still more testing and information to gather.
The WHO and CDC on the spread of the disease
It is possible that it can be spread through coughs or sneezes from someone who is infected, especially if they are in close distance to them. Someone may be more likely to get infected if their immune system is weak, i.e. if they are sick.
It looks like COVID-19 is being labeled as a “community spread”, in certain affected areas, meaning that there are individuals who have been affected in that area who are unsure how/where they got it.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
Prevention
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Refrain from touching eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible
- If you feel sick, stay home
- Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing using a disposable item such as napkins and tissues. After use, throw out the item(s) immediately
If you suspect you are infected the CDC says…
- Stay in your home, and isolate yourself in a room away from other people and animals
- Call your healthcare provider and tell them you may be infected with the disease
- Do not share any used personal items like utensils, cups, bedding, etc.; after usage be sure to clean thoroughly.
- Wash your hands!
- Wash any surfaces that you use on a daily basis
The virus currently isn’t a pandemic, yet there are many who are anxious about it. As healthcare professionals, it is important to gather accurate information/stay up to date and counter stigma.
Written by: Randy Holloran, Randy Holloran is the current President of Go Healthcare Staffing. Prior to that Randy led Cirrus Medical Staffing to the Inc 5000 as President after selling his online firm, Nursetogether to Cirrus. Randy is also a former Board Member of NATHO.
References:
CDC- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
WHO-https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
