Winston Salem, NC – 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Coronavirus Answered

As the coronavirus obsession occupies everyone’s minds, countless questions are coming up, many of which are yet to be answered.

Q.1. What is the Source of the Coronavirus?

A: Coronavirus isn’t a standalone disease. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some of which only infect animals, while others can affect humans. Very few coronaviruses that infect animals are known to spread to humans as well.

While it hasn’t been proved yet (possibly because professionals are more determined to develop a vaccine rather than dig into the root cause), the novel coronavirus named Covid-19 is suspected to have originated from animals. Both SARS and MERS, two dangerous coronaviruses of the past, are known to have originated from animals.

Q.2. In what circumstances should I consider getting tested for the Covid-19?

A: If you have recently been in an area with an ongoing Covid-19 outbreak or have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for the disease, you should consider getting tested or at least isolate yourself for 14 days— the incubation period for the Covid-19.

If you experience symptoms such as cough, fever, tiredness, and/or difficulty breathing during the quarantine phase or are facing these conditions now, you should immediately get tested for Covid-19.

If you passed the 14-day quarantine period without showing any symptoms, you aren’t infected, and don’t pose a risk to others.

Q.3. Can I safely visit the funeral of someone who died of COVID-19?

A: As of now, there’s no evidence of risk associated with being close to the body of a deceased person who died of Covid-19. Keep in mind that the main cause of transmission of Covid-19 is human-to-human contact, which doesn’t apply after death.

However, since the virus can also be spread from objects or surfaces carrying the Covid-19 respiratory droplets, why can’t it be spread from people who died of it? Since experts are still in the learning phase, it’s best to avoid direct contact with dead bodies; but you can safely visit the funeral as long as you live in an area where it’s not too serious and the place doesn’t get crowded.

Q.4. Can Covid-19 be cured?

A: While work is being done to develop a vaccine, no FDA approved medication for Covid-19 exists as of now. Those infected with the virus should isolate themselves, where supportive care such as rest, fever control, fluids should be received to get rid of the symptoms. For serious patients and infected old adults, care to support the functions of vital organs should be part of the treatment.

Q.5. What safety measures should be taken to prevent getting infected?

A: Follow these safety practices:

1. Frequently wash your hands with water and soap and keep using a hand sanitizer that has 60% alcohol.
2. Try to stay at home as much as possible. Working individuals should start working from home.
3. Maintain a 6-feet distance with others to prevent transmission.
4. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes
5. Clean your home on a daily basis using wipes and standard household cleaners that can effectively disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.

To learn more about how you can keep your home clean and protect it from Covid-19, get in touch with us.