Coronavirus symptoms and prevention
I thought it might be helpful to my fellow members to publish the advice I have given to people who work for me with reference to the coronavirus outbreak. Some of the advice has been researched by myself and some is from the British government, but I feel it is relevant to people anywere in the world:
As the coronavirus begins to spread, please find to follow a list of symptoms and then some advice to help prevent the disease and to help in treating the virus.
It is now estimated that more than 60% of the population will catch coronavirus and whilst for the majority, symptoms are minor, it can lead to more serious illness especially in people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Symptoms:
The main symptoms will begin between 2 and 14 days of exposure. These include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Preparation:
There are several things you can do to best prepare your body to deal with the coronavirus. As respiratory failure is probably the worst of the symptoms it would be sensible to stop smoking. Other sensible measures would include preparing your body to fight the virus. As well as being in good health the following supplements can help the body in the fight against viruses:
- Vitamin D – produced in the skin with exposure to sunlight and also found in some foods. It is no coincidence that colds and flu virtually die out during the summer months when we all receive more sunlight. During the winter months it is recommended to take a supplement of at least 4000iu (also found in fish oils such as cod liver oil). Cheap and readily available at supermarkets.
- Turmeric – has proven antiviral qualities. Recommended dose of at least 600mg. As Turmeric is not absorbed by the body well, it is advised to take a supplement which includes black pepper. Available at health food shops and online.
- · Lactoferrin – it has been known for decades that lactoferrin is beneficial in the fight against viruses. Although not tested specifically on coronavirus, we would assume it is beneficial against all viruses. Recommended dose is 300mg per day and between 1 and 2 grams if you have coronavirus. Available at health food shops and online.
- Friendly bacteria – such as acidophilus. As around 60% of our immune system is found in the stomach it makes sense to keep it in good health. These bacteria can be found in live cultures such as kefir, live yoghurts and yoghurt drinks like Yacult. Also available in tablet form from health shops and online.
Prevention:
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Clean your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community.
Cover coughs and sneezes
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Wear a facemask if you are sick
- If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room.
- If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
Clean and disinfect
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
To disinfect:
Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work. Use disinfectants appropriate for the surface.
Options include:
- Diluting your household bleach.
To make a bleach solution, mix: - 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
- Alcohol solutions.
Ensure solution has at least 70% alcohol.
What to do if you are sick:
Stay home except to get medical care
- Stay home: People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care.
- Avoid public areas: Do not go to work, school, or public areas.
- Avoid public transportation: Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
- Stay away from others: As much as possible, you should stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available.
- Limit contact with pets & animals: You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus.
- When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.
Call ahead before visiting your doctor
- Call ahead: If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the healthcare provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
I hope you have found the above advice useful and wish you all and your families the best of health.
Recent Comments
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Thank you for this relevant post, Andrew! There was a report of a dog becoming infected with Covid-19, I think in Washington State, and if true, then it's no surprise as the alleged ground zero foth the disease was an open market in Wuhan China with many animals about!
Jeff
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It is useful information. At this special time, everyone is subjected to coronavirus infection. All need to take precaution to prevent the virus getting into your body and to boost your immunity against the virus in case it invade your body.
Wish for the best and prepare for the worst.