We have asked our member, dr Barbara Kuske to help us understand Coronavirus and to help us stay as healthy as possible.
Please read and apply!
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which can cause respiratory illnesses ranging from the common cold to the more severe such as Severe Acute Respiratory Symptom (SARS).
The current issues are caused by a new strain of Coronavirus which broke out in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing the disease COVID-19. Knowledge about the strain is emerging but limited and advice based on experience with previous coronaviruses.
The Virus is spread by respiratory droplets in coughs and sneezes. It enters the body via the nose, mouth and eyes. It can survive on hard surfaces for up to 48hrs. A person, therefore, gets infected by breathing in droplets when facing an infected person or by touching their eyes, nose or mouth after touching surfaces or objects containing droplets.
Symptoms are likely to develop within 5 days but incubation (time from infection to symptoms) can be 1 to 14days after exposure. Older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions are most at risk to develop the severe disease (high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes). Treatment focuses on symptom relieve. There is currently no cure or vaccine.
Common symptoms:
- High temperature
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
What we all can do to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus?
- Washing hands using soap and water (or alcohol-based disinfectant gel in no water) is the one best method to prevent the spread. Most important before eating and drinking, after coughing and sneezing and going to the toilet.
- Avoiding direct contact with nose, mouth and eyes.
- Respiratory hygiene: Covering nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, disposing of the tissue immediately afterwards.
What does not work?
There is insufficient evidence that face masks are effective in preventing the spread in the community. In addition, their use is impractical in daily life. Most are disposable and for one-time use only.
The WHO advises being mindful of community use as this may waste resources. There is a global shortage. Face masks are effective when interacting with an infected person.
If there are symptoms
Stay at home. Do not attend the GP or A&E. Phone NHS 24 (111) or follow the advice: https://www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus. The website has a helpful pathway to tailor an individuals situation.
Dr Barbara Kuske
Date: 12 March 2020Resources:https://www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus#overviewhttps://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
From Fitness Soul Owners Joanna and Leszek
Let’s recap.
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds before and after any class
- Avoid touching your face
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and dispose of the tissue in the bin after use
- Wipe down kit after you have used it
- Feeling unwell? Displaying symptoms of COVID-19? Please don’t come! Self-isolate.
- Follow Government guidance if you are a returning traveller
It is more important than ever to as healthy as you can – eat well, keep exercising, avoid stress. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Fitness Soul Team
