March 4, 2020

COVID-19 Prevention and Symptoms: What You Need to Know

With so much information available online, it can be difficult to separate facts from misinformation about COVID-19. Understanding how the virus spreads, recognising the symptoms, and following recommended prevention measures can help protect you and those around you.

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can affect both humans and animals, causing illnesses that range from the common cold to more serious respiratory diseases.

Since its emergence, COVID-19 has spread globally, affecting millions of people and prompting significant public health responses worldwide.

How Does COVID-19 Spread?

COVID-19 primarily spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets and airborne particles released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, sings, or breathes.

The virus can spread more easily in crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation. While transmission through contaminated surfaces is possible, it is generally considered less common than airborne transmission.

What Are the Common Symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may range from mild illness to severe disease.

Common symptoms include:

  • Fever or chills

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Shortness of breath

  • Runny or blocked nose

  • Fatigue

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Headache

  • Loss of taste or smell

  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

Some individuals experience only mild symptoms, while others may become seriously ill and require medical treatment.

Who Is Most at Risk of Severe Illness?

Although COVID-19 can affect anyone, certain groups are at a higher risk of developing severe illness, including:

  • Older adults

  • People with chronic respiratory conditions

  • Individuals with heart disease

  • People with diabetes

  • Those with weakened immune systems

  • Individuals with multiple underlying health conditions

Early medical attention is recommended if symptoms worsen or breathing difficulties develop.

How Can You Help Prevent COVID-19?

Good hygiene and sensible health practices remain effective ways to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.

Prevention measures include:

Wash Your Hands Regularly

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, using public facilities, or before eating.

Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterwards.

Stay Home When Unwell

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or any respiratory illness, avoid close contact with others and follow local health advice.

Maintain Good Respiratory Hygiene

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands, and practise good hygiene in shared environments.

Follow Current Public Health Advice

Recommendations may change as new information becomes available. Stay informed by following advice from trusted health authorities.

Do Face Masks Help Prevent COVID-19?

Face masks can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, particularly in situations where physical distancing may be difficult or when community transmission is elevated.

Current recommendations regarding mask use may vary depending on local health guidelines, workplace requirements, and individual circumstances.

When Should You Isolate?

If you test positive for COVID-19 or are advised by a healthcare professional to isolate, it is important to follow the latest public health guidance. Isolation helps reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to family members, colleagues, and the broader community.

Should You Be Concerned About COVID-19?

COVID-19 remains a health concern, but panic is rarely helpful. Staying informed, practising good hygiene, and following health advice can significantly reduce your risk of infection and help protect vulnerable members of the community.

By understanding the symptoms, transmission methods, and prevention strategies, you can make informed decisions and contribute to a safer environment for everyone.

 

 

 

 

If you have a confirmed case, you need to isolate yourself to prevent it spreading to other people.

Presently the number of deaths associated with the COVID-19 virus have been people around 80 years of age and above with a current health condition (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease) so, for the majority of people the virus will just be a bad cold, and Australia’s medical system, whilst it will be pushed, is able to accommodate the influx of vulnerable cases. As such, for the majority of us, there is no reason to panic.