The novel coronavirus (COVID 19)

As of, December 2019, up to 2021, the world has been dived into an infectious disease called coronavirus or, (Covid-19) it is a fatal and strongly contagious virus. It is clear that, it has originated from a Chinese lab in Wuhan. (China) The factory, (wet markets) trained butchers, cut animals from the wildlife alive. However the virus, originated from bats and birds because Asians were consuming them.

It is confirmed that this virus is a global pandemic. The cases have plunged to millions of people globally. There currently are 111 million cases, 62.7 million recovered and 2.46 million deaths worldwide. (Please note, there are changes to cases on a day to day basis, so please check Google for updated results and, to get notified about safety measures)

At the start of the pandemic, some people were panic buying and hoarding of supplies, fearing that the entire country will be in a lockdown. But only supermarkets, pharmacies, clinics were and still kept open. This is an ongoing pandemic, so cases increase daily. The most affected countries are America, Italy, Spain and China. Above all, America is the highest to be affected.

An available vaccine took a long period of time for it to commence. But it is nearer than farther in some countries. The good news is that it has already begun to emerge in the United Kingdom and Australia; with approved results. (Please do check the news for more updates) However, people will need to learn to live with this virus, even after getting vaccinated because this virus may never vanish completely.

The symptoms of the coronavirus disease are, commonly, a sore throat, loss of smell and taste, runny nose, a bad cough, and shortness of breath. If you do have shortness of breath, it is strongly recommended you seek medical attention immediately. Thus, this is a vital symptom.

If you are feeling unwell, stay at home or in emergencies, go to the hospital, although, hospital stays can be unsafe, due to overcrowded, sick patients. It is strictly stated from the Australian prime minister, Scott Morrison that wearing face masks is mandatory when in crowded places, if not there will be a $200 dollar fine. Whilst exercising it isn’t compulsory therefore, restrictions vary from time to time. For example, Australia can go back to a stage 4 lockdown if there are active cases. It is true that Australia went in and out, back and forth. It is times like these that are very unprecedented…

The severity of the virus depends on if you have chronic illnesses and a low immune system, if so, you’re more vulnerable to contract it, and have a higher mortality rate, especially if you’re an older person. Young kids or adults may overcome it faster if they are healthier. Although, even if you’re healthy, you still may catch the virus from a transmitted person or contaminated surface, get sick and take time to recover either way.

Hygiene is essential. Preventive measures are, for example, washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, no touching your face with dirty hands, sanitizing hands regularly, wearing a face mask when going out and a 1.5 meters social distance from people.

Social distancing is defined as, avoiding close proximity so, maintaining your space distant, no handshaking and kissing. Plus, (there is no evidence that shows the virus transmits by sexual contact) Self-isolating is when, traveled to a certain destination, at arrival, you must self-isolate yourself for 14 days, so you need to stay at home or in a hotel. (A housing property is suggested) the reason being, in case if you transmit the virus from another country in overseas.

There has been lockdowns worldwide, which has made life a ghost town. This has led to, postponement of school and work for the local community, and many more closures; everybody is awaiting different restrictions from their governments in each country, and must obey them. If not, breaching may lead to harsher consequences, like getting a pricey fine, if you live in Australia; so most of the time people are at home, studying or working virtually. Thus, this depends on where you live. Some countries aren’t in lockdowns.

Nobody can do much for the lives lost, but can make a better and safer environment by staying at home, being loyal with social distancing and self-isolating, washing hands thoroughly, wearing face masks, taking precautions and getting vaccinated. Always hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

By a freelance writer,

Seniha Haksever