Given the pandemic that the entire world is experiencing, it is necessary that the general population is aware of what the coronavirus is. Below we have answered some questions that are of interest and that some of our patients have asked us.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The main symptoms are fever, cough, and a feeling of shortness of breath. There may also be symptoms like diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Most cases have mild symptoms, especially in children and young adults. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, major difficulty in breathing and even death. The most serious cases are presented mainly by the elderly or those who suffer from a chronic disease, such as heart or lung problems, among others.
When do COVID-19 symptoms appear?
The incubation period can last from 1 to 14 days, but in most cases symptoms appear 5 to 6 days after infection.
How is the new coronavirus transmitted?
Transmission is by close contact with respiratory secretions that are generated by a sick person’s cough or sneeze. Its contagiousness depends on the amount of the virus in the airways. These secretions infect another person if they come into contact with their nose, eyes, or mouth. It is transmitted when the distance is less than 1 to 2 meters from an infected person.
What are the risk groups?
The main risk groups are those over 60 years old, those who suffer with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic lung disease, immunodeficiencies, cancer, and pregnancy.
How long do coronavirus symptoms last?
On average, from the onset of symptoms to recovery the time is 2 weeks when the disease has been mild, when it has been severe it ranges from 3-6 weeks.
Is there a specific treatment for coronavirus?
There is no specific treatment, studies are being done with different drugs (antivirals and antimalarials, among other drugs) that have shown some efficacy. Therefore, it is important to remember the recommendation to never purchase drugs that can be advertised for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. Treatment protocols are changing periodically based on new advances in the treatment of the disease. It is important to know that there is no preventive treatment, nor is there yet a vaccine that prevents the disease.
There are treatments that help control the symptoms of COVID-19 and medical attention improves the prognosis of the disease.
Should we wear masks to protect ourselves?
The main prevention mechanisms continue to be Interpersonal distance, hand washing and hygiene in public and private spaces.
If a person has respiratory symptoms, it is advisable to wear a mask.
Following the latest recommendations of the Spanish Ministry of Health, the use of masks in the general population could serve as a mean of control to reduce the spread of the virus, by reducing the emission of respiratory droplets from infected people who have not yet developed symptoms. The recommendation of the use of masks is when you are in crowded places like public transport or enclosed spaces like supermarkets.
It should be remembered that this measure is only complementary to those previously mentioned.
The most important thing is the distance between people, hand hygiene and not touching the face, eyes, nose and mouth is essential for prevention.
What do I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
The most recommended thing is that you do not go to medical centres or hospitals to prevent further infections. It is recommended that you contact them via the telephone number in your community. It is important to maintain preventive measures at home to avoid infecting family members and people in your environment.
If you have respiratory distress, it is better to call or go to the emergency department within the hospitals. They will perform chest x-rays and make tests and depending on the results, they may ask for an additional test for coronavirus.
It is especially important that you stay at home, and that you practice prevention, since it is the most important thing to control this pandemic.
At Gran Alacant Family Doctors 24h we work near you. These days we have an online consultation service or consultation via telephone, in addition to attending emergencies. Since we know that there are other medical conditions that are also important, do not hesitate to call if you need help.
We also have a prescription service for chronic diseases so you do not run out of your usual medication.
Your health is our priority
Gran Alacant Family Doctors
C/Holanda 9, bajo 8 Gran Alacant
T: 865 789 554
