COVID-19
Knowing to prevent!
![COVID Special COVID Special](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid19_conhecer_para_prevenir_11022021161707.jpg)
The world is worried about the infection caused by a new coronavirus (COVID-19). The best way to combat a disease is to know about it in order to know how to prevent it and how to act when there is a suspected infection.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid19_conhecer_para_prevenir_sintomas_12022021175248.jpg)
What is COVID-19?
It is the disease caused by a virus of the coronavirus family which mostly presents similar manifestations to the common flu:
- fever;
- cough;
- shortness of breath.
There are cases that can develop into a more serious illness, such as pneumonia.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid19_conhecer_para-prevenir_origem_do_virus_11022021171823.jpg)
Where does it come from?
WHERE: Most of the cases identified so far are in China, but some cases have been detected in other countries, including Europe.
HOW: The source of the infection is not yet known, but it is believed that it may have an animal origin - most of the initial cases are associated with people who frequented a live food and animal (fish, seafood and poultry) market in Wuhan.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/173_5_EN_2_915202112151-AM.jpg)
How is the virus transmitted?
By the respiratory route - that is, through the air, in the droplets expelled when you sneeze or cough, for example.
Indirect transmission (through objects contaminated by infected people - e.g. by sneezing) is also thought to exist, as preliminary studies suggest that the virus survives for a few hours on contaminated surfaces.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid_19_conhecer_para_prevenir_vacinas_11022021175900.jpg)
Is there Treatment?
Despite the availability of vaccines for COVID-19, group immunity (70% of the population immunised) has not yet been achieved.
Thus, and particularly in the most affected countries:
Avoid close contact with people with signs of respiratory infection such as coughing, stuffy and/or runny nose and difficulty breathing;
Avoid contact with wild or farm animals and the consumption of raw or undercooked animal products;
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with a 70° alcohol-based product (liquid, gel or wipes), especially after sharing a space with potentially ill people (e.g. on public transport or in shopping centres) and whenever you blow your nose, sneeze or cough;
Take measures for respiratory etiquette - cover your nose and mouth whenever you sneeze or cough, with a tissue or your arm (never with your hands). Put the tissue in the bin and if possible wash your hands or disinfect them with an alcohol-based solution; wear a mask if necessary.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid_19_conhecer_para_prevenir_infecao_cuidados_hospitalares_11022021172503.jpg)
I suspect I am infected. Now what?
Portugal is prepared to respond in case of disease - several measures are being implemented to prevent and control the infection.
If you have recently been in areas affected by COVID-19 or contacted someone infected, watch for possible respiratory symptoms (fever, cough or shortness of breath) within 14 days of return/contact. If you have signs or symptoms, call SNS 24 (808 24 24 24) immediately.
![](https://911pharma.com/upload/covid_19_conhecer_para_prevenir_infecao_por_sars_cov_2_11022021172742.jpg)
Did you know that...?
There have been more outbreaks associated with coronaviruses (between 2002 and 2003, the SARS-CoV coronavirus, responsible for severe acute respiratory syndrome, was identified, and in 2012, the MERS-CoV coronavirus, responsible for Middle East respiratory syndrome).
Where can I get more information?
Being informed is the first step! The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) is closely monitoring the situation, validating and continuously making available all updates on COVID-19, at: www.dgs.pt.
Sources
iSaúde
Farmácia Distribuição Magazine
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