The other name for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) is Novel Coronavirus, which means it is a new disease caused by a coronavirus. But the virus itself is not new because coronavirus has been around for some time because it is a large family of viruses that commonly cause respiratory infections such as the common colds, MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
Viral infections are self-limiting, but they can also be fatal depending on the virulence of the virus, the vulnerability of the host, and the interventions done to manage the infection. COVID 19 is a new and contagious infection but we can use what we know about it so far to protect ourselves from being one of its casualties.
The most important information about COVID 19 is that it is self-limiting. Between the moment we get infected and the time the disease resolves on its own, we have to be strong enough to survive the signs and symptoms. Next, we should remember the mode of transmission, which is through droplets an infected person exhales through the air if their mouth and nose are not covered.
Therefore, wearing masks by both the infected and non-infected person creates a barrier that can stop the spread of the virus. Maintaining a social distance of about six feet from other people also offers more safety because droplets cannot spread very far.
Lastly, consistent handwashing and taking a bath after being exposed outside one’s home also limit disease transmission because the virus is eliminated before it gets the chance to enter the body through the nose, mouth, and mucous membranes.
Following the health protocols of handwashing, social distancing, and wearing of masks may have been effective if promptly implemented and followed. However, the virus was able to spread in some vulnerable populations and developed mutations over time. Thus, governments of countries worldwide applied different levels of community quarantine to contain the virus.
For almost two years, our way of life was changed and the virus dominated the news with mortality and infection surges. Numerous businesses suffered and many people lost jobs from the retrenchments and downsizing. But as countries worldwide suffered from losses, scientists and experts were also able to develop advances on ways to combat the fast transmission and enhance the management of the COVID 19 infection.
We now have standard processes when it comes to case detection, quarantine, and disease management. With the increased data about COVID and numerous numbers of research conducted, we now have credible vaccines and strong anti-viral medications to provide protection and treatment for the population. Because of these developments, we are almost ready to go back to our pre-pandemic way of life.
With the use of a more convenient option than reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing which also has a high level of accuracy to boost, business industries and establishments are set to return to face-to-face transactions.
Pioneer companies like Vaccin8 Plus in Australia offer services to conduct the new and convenient method of testing for COVID. Through saliva rapid antigen testing, an ongoing infection can now be detected in 10 minutes. With the combination of factors like proper timing and accurate testing method, saliva rapid antigen tests have 99% accuracy in their negative results.
On the other hand, positive results can be confirmed using the RT-PCR tests. This method of testing eliminates the time constraint and discomfort of the RT-PCR test without compromising the accuracy of the results. With this innovative case detection method, ensuring the safety of returning workers and students is easier to do.
Lastly, strengthening our body’s resistance through healthy lifestyle habits and through vaccination is also vital. COVID-19 can be prevented through conscientious compliance to health protocols. And if the virus is still able to penetrate our physical barriers, our body’s resistance should be strong enough to keep the virus from inflicting severe damage.
We need to learn how to fight and manage COVID 19 infection as individuals and as a society if we want to continue thriving and being functional despite the presence of this virus. Together, we can do it if we stay disciplined and vigilant!
