A lot of articles have been written on the Coronavirus cases in Africa, particularly on the Lagos discovery. There is an apparent worldwide panic over the outbreak of the virus that does not seem to have a cure.

There also appears to be a lot of misinformation on the internet on about the virus. Without further ado, here are the eight fast facts you need to know about the Coronavirus, that will bring you up to speed and make you relevant in public conversations.​​​

Name

The Coronavirus is pronounced as one name, and not two as in "Corona Virus". The Coronavirus is not a new name however, as there have been coronaviruses circulating for years and are what sometimes causes what we describe as the “common cold”.

The difference between the others and this new strain codenamed COVID-19 is that there have been no antibodies developed for this one, so no one is immune to it – yet. 

Origin

This mysterious  virus was first heard of in Hubei, China. The first cases were confirmed to have originated from there. 

Symptoms

Although not much is known about the coronavirus, it has been confirmed to present itself as a type of Flu. Naturally attacking the immune system of its victims and causing Influenza kinds of symptoms.  

Fever, dry cough, tiredness, difficulty in breathing and in some fatal cases, organ failure. Runny nose and sore throat are also common symptoms. It has been confirmed that some patients  show no symptoms at all.

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Experts claim that the strength of the particular immune system that the virus attacks determines the extent of the ailments caused by it. 

Preventive measures

Younger people appear to be better protected against the virus, and although experts do not have a valid explanation yet they claim that children are more resistant to the virus.

There is a general misconception that masks prevent individuals from contracting the deadly virus – this is not entirely true. Masks are not effective for preventing individuals from getting the corona virus and should only be used by workers or patients who ALREADY have the virus to reduce the spread through coughing or sneezing.

Flu shots are also effective. But the ultimate weapon against the virus is the good old habit of  washing of hands thoroughly, as most flus are spread through this way. No special soap is needed to wash, any type of soap can be used.

Cases in Africa

As of 2 March, the new corona virus has infected nearly 89,900 people across 65 countries, according to the World Health Organization. There have only been three official cases in Africa; one in Egypt, one in Algeria and one in Nigeria.

 Cure

As of now, there is no official cure for the Coronavirus. If however you are exhibiting symptoms or you know someone who is, call your physician immediately.

Coronavirus and Travel

World Health Organisation has warned that Africa has “fragile health systems” and has discouraged travel as the threat posed by the virus in Africa cannot be properly measured.

In Kenya, the High Court has ordered a temporary suspensions for flight from China as more and more countries are restricting incoming traffic from the country of origin. 

Definition of terms

Patient zero – the first human that contacts a virus and spreads it to others

Pandemic – a disease that is present over a whole country, continent or the whole world. 

Endemic – a disease that is only present in a particular place

Influenza – a disease that occurs in several forms and rapidly changes over time, characterised by respiratory symptoms. 

Please do make sure you arm yourself with proper knowledge so you can stay above the tidal wave of incorrect information, and to come back here for more updates. Stay healthy!