Coronavirus: The essentials

This article provides the essential information on coronavirus and hopes to keep our clients safe and informed.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus is a common virus around the world. There are currently seven known strains of the virus that infect people, four of which typically cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory illness (similar to a common cold). More recent strains, Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) cause more severe illness.

The current outbreak is SARS-CoV2, which causes Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

How Is It Spread?

It is spreads person-to-person via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. These droplets land on surfaces, and the disease is spread when a person touches an infected surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.

Evidence suggests the virus can live on surfaces for several hours to a several days, depending on factors like the type of surface and temperature. The droplets can also be inhaled, which is why the WHO (World Health Organization) recommends staying at least three feet (one meter) away from persons who are sick or coughing. This is similar to how influenza and common colds are spread. Current research suggests the virus is not spread through the air.

Some coronavirus strains may be more contagious than others. It appears most cases of COVID-19 are spread between close contacts like family members.

How Can You Prevent the Spread?

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19. The WHO recommend taking common precautions to prevent respiratory illness, including:

• Regular hand washing with soap (for at least 20 seconds) or alcohol-based solution (at least 60% alcohol),
• Covering coughing or sneezing with a tissue or elbow (not your hand),
• Avoiding touching of eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands,
• Limiting contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects

Health authorities do not recommend wearing masks at this time, unless you are a healthcare provider, infected with COVID-19, or caring for an infected person.

Coronavirus Updates

This is a changing situation and we need to closely follow updates on the Coronavirus and advice suggested by the Federal Government and Health authorities with the main  links below:

AU Dept. of Health – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Alert

CDC – Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19 ) Updates

Interested in more preventative strategies??   Check out our other articles – Immune boosting for flu symptoms

Cameron Corish has been caring and achieving results for the local Wishart, Mansfield and Mt Gravatt community for over 10 years. Together with the Core Health Coaching Team, he takes a multi-disciplined and holistic approach to health and fitness addressing the physical, mental and emotional aspects of one’s health.  

Ready to feel and look your best?  Come in for a FREE chat and see how we can make a difference in your life.  Call 0406 451 907 or email Cameron at cameron@corehealthcoaching.com.au