What is the Novel Coronavirus?
It is from the family of Coronavirus that is a new strain. Similar to other Coronaviruses it comes from animals. It originated from the Wuhan province in China where many of those infected initially worked in the Huanan seafood wholesale market. Originally it was thought to only spread from animal to human but now it has also been confirmed that it also spreads from person to person as well. Which animal it potentially originates from or how it spreads is still being investigated.
What are other examples of Coronavirus?
A few other examples of Coronaviruses include Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). SARS spread to humans from cats while MERS can be spread from Camels to humans. Both viruses however were thought to originate in bats originally.
What are symptoms of Novel Coronavirus?
The virus can cause pneumonia in patients. Patients have suffered with coughs, fever as well shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Because it is a virus it cannot be treated with antibiotics. We currently do not have a vaccine for treatment for it and our measures for treating patients currently focus on alleviating the symptoms of the virus. Ultimately patients rely on their own immune system to eradicate the virus. Some people only experience mild symptoms while others have become severely ill.
How many people are currently being affected by the Novel Coronavirus?
Currently according to records it has spread to 24,324 people with about 2300 of those affected in critical condition. There have been a total of 490 deaths so far.
What is my risk in Alberta for Novel Coronavirus?
There have been a total of 18 people tested for Novel Coronavirus but we still do not have any confirmed cases. The risk for Albertans is still considered low.
How can I protect myself?
- Avoid close contact with people who are infected
- If you are sick avoid interacting with other people. Stay home rather than going into work.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze with the crook of your elbow.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Regularly disinfect surfaces that are likely to be contaminated with germs. Current information suggests that the virus can live on surfaces for about 2 hours. Under favourable circumstances for the Novel Coronavirus it can live up 1 day and has even been observed as much as 5 days on surfaces.
- Regularly disinfect surfaces that are likely to be contaminated with germs.
- Regularly wash your hands to avoid catching or spreading any type of germs.
Other Helpful Tips!
If you think you may have the Novel Coronavirus call your doctor or hospital before heading down there. This will allow them to prepare space for you and give them opportunity to record your recent history including travel.
Currently it is recommended not to travel to China.
Face masks are currently not recommended. It does not hurt to use one but there is little evidence to suggest it would be effective in preventing the spread of the virus.
If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to reach out to us at iCare Pharmacy! We offer free delivery on all our prescription medications City Wide!
