Coronavirus

A virus in general is a small particle which is too small to be seen even by a light microscope. They are able to replicate in living organisms such as plants, animals and certain types of bacteria. Thus they cause infectious diseases. Some examples of viral diseases are the Common cold, Chicken pox, AIDS, Ebola, influenza, SARS and so on. One such viral disease that is causing a pandemic in multiple countries at the same time is the “Corona virus” also known as COVID – 19. “CO” stands for corona, “VI” stands for virus, “D” stands for disease and “19” stands for the year in which it started 2019. Other names are novel coronavirus 2019-nCov.

Coronavirus are a group of virus that is able to infect mammals. It belongs to a family named Coronaviridae. The name Corona means Crown in which its outer shape resembles a crown. These crowns like spikes are the proteins on the surface of the virus. Coronavirus cause respiratory related issues in humans such as common cold, pneumonia, bronchitis, fever and sore throat. Diseases such as MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) are also caused by two strains of the corona virus.

COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2). This was first discovered in Wuhan, Hubei Province in China in November. The main cause of this viral transmission is through respiratory droplets produced as a result of coughing, sneezing, and breathing. The droplets having the virus particles eventually end up in the mouths and noses and can be inhaled into the lungs. Also touching contaminated surfaces and touching the mouth, nose or the face can get the virus into the lungs. The virus can survive on surfaces for many hours and days.  

Although the virus is able to spread from one person to another while being symptomatic, it is able to transmit even before symptoms starts to show. The symptoms start to show within fourteen days from the day of exposure. According to the WHO (World Health Organization) as of 03rd April over 1 million people have been known to get infected and fifty thousand deaths have been reported. The standard method of testing is done by taking samples from the nose or sputum and testing on real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Since there is no vaccine available, prevention is the cure. Prevention methods include washing the hands with soap, avoid touching the nose, face mouth, avoiding crowded places and last but not least staying at home.

The severity of the people varies by age and their ability to fight the disease. The most susceptible are the elderly and those who have pre existing health condition, such as diabetes, renal disease, cardiovascular disease. Even though children are susceptible, the chances of recovery are high when compared to the elders. Pregnant women are also at risk. Since not much information is not available on this virus, research is ongoing at a faster pace.