Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19)

Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCo)

The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), officially named Covid-19, is a virus identified as the cause of a respiratory illness outbreak initially detected in Wuhan, China. Early reports indicated that many patients in Wuhan had connections to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting transmission from animals to humans. However, an increasing number of cases have occurred in individuals with no exposure to animal markets, indicating person-to-person spread is occurring. The extent and sustainability of this virus's transmission between individuals remain unclear.

Transmission

Much remains uncertain about how 2019-nCoV spreads, given its novelty. Current understanding is largely based on knowledge of similar coronaviruses. Coronaviruses are prevalent in various animal species, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. While animal coronaviruses rarely infect humans, some, like MERS, SARS, and now 2019-nCoV, can spread among people.

Transmission between individuals primarily occurs through close contact, approximately within 6 feet. Person-to-person spread is believed to happen mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, akin to the transmission of influenza and other respiratory pathogens. Whether the virus can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces remains uncertain.

Symptoms

Symptoms of confirmed 2019-nCoV infections range from mild or asymptomatic cases to severe illness and fatalities. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The incubation period—the time from exposure to onset of symptoms—may range from 2 to 14 days, based on previous experiences with MERS viruses.

Prevention and Treatment

Currently, no vaccine exists to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. Preventive measures include avoiding exposure to the virus and practicing everyday preventive actions recommended by the CDC, such as regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when feeling unwell.

For individuals sick with 2019-nCoV, steps to prevent its spread include staying home except for medical care, wearing a facemask, practicing respiratory etiquette, and maintaining good hand hygiene. Additionally, individuals should avoid sharing personal household items and monitor their symptoms closely.