How to know if you have Covid-19 / Coronavirus and what to do about it
The year 2020 has brought significant changes to life as we know it. It has impacted many countries around the world. COVID-19, which stands for “coronavirus disease 2019” and was first discovered in Wuhan, China at the end of 2019 and has been traveling around the world since. It seems that we hear so many different numbers that we decided to find a site that allowed you to have a look at the True Covid-19 Data so see what is happening around the world.
Worldwide impact | True Covid-19 Data
CDC and other news sites have maps showing statistics of the impact around the world. There is one site that shows data worldwide, or you can select a particular country to see the latest statistics for that country.
How does it spread?
The virus spreads from person to person—usually, droplets from a sneeze, cough, or even talking near someone with the virus. If the droplets land in the nose or mouth, it can be inhaled into the lungs. The person who has the virus may not know they have it for one to two weeks since they were infected. During the incubation period, they are now carriers and can pass the virus to others. COVID-19 can stay on surfaces for some time. If you touch a contaminated surface or object, then touch your face, you could become infected.
Wear a face mask
Should you wear a mask? CDC recommends wearing a cloth face covering when you are in public like the grocery store. It may not give complete protection if someone sneezes on you, but it will help you from touching your face. Medical face masks are very difficult to find. You can make your own. CDC has instructions for a sew and a new sew cloth face covering.
Also, many YouTube tutorials teach you how to make your own. Some require sewing, and some don’t. The one below does need a sewing machine but does not require elastic, which is difficult to find. This tutorial has a pocket where you can insert a filter that will provide you with more protection.
How to protect yourself from COVID-19
- Self-quarantine, if possible.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer if available.
- Clean surfaces in your home that are touched frequently with soap and water.
- Keep at least six feet away from people when you are in public.
- Eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of water.
Build up your immune system
Building your immune system will provide the best protection.
What if you have been exposed to the virus?
- Wash your hands and face with soap and water. Soap breaks down the cells of the virus and washes them down the drain.
- Go home and take a shower if possible.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are very similar to a cold, flu, and seasonal allergies. Symptoms can include the following:
- Fever
- Dry cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Tiredness
- Aches and pains
- Headaches
- Sore throat
COVID-19 severity can range from mild to severe. If your symptoms are mild, the best thing to do is stay home. Go to bed and get as much rest as possible. Drink a lot of fluids. Quarantine yourself from others. Stay in one bedroom away from the rest of the family. Try and use only one bathroom that is dedicated to your use only if possible.
Have someone bring your meals to you.
If your symptoms are severe with difficulty breathing, call your local COVID-19 testing site or medical facility. Call first.
Don’t just show up. They will talk to you about your symptoms and determine if you need to come in. You can also contact the CDC and use their self-checker, which is a chat box that guides you in making decisions if you should seek medical care.
Be safe and keep your distance.