Covid-19 is an emergent disease
Covid-19 is an emergent disease that is believed to be caused by a new strain of the virus known as Corona. The acronym COVID stands for Corona Virus Disease. Initially, the infection was referred to as the 2019-nCoV or 2019 novel coronavirus. This emergent virus is a new infection associated with the same strain of viruses like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) as well as several other types of cold. This Covid-19 pandemic is proving to be the contemporary defining global health crisis as well as the most significant challenge humanity has ever faced since World War II. Since the emergence of this disease in Asia late 2019, the virus has become contagious and has spread to almost every continent I the world, except for Antarctica. New cases of the infection are rising daily in the Americas, Africa, and Europe. All nations are using their medical expertise to slow down or stop the spread of the disease by conducting mass testing and treatments of patients. Medical experts and governments are also conducting contact tracing, travel limitation strategies, quarantine efforts, and prohibiting social gatherings such as concerts, attending schools, and participating in sporting activities.
The symptoms of this disease can include mild to severe fevers, cough, and difficulty in breathing. In more severe cases, the infections can result in other ailments such as pneumonia or shortness in breathing. More infrequently, the virus can result in fatal health complications. Its symptoms are similar to those of influenza or a common cold, which are a lot more conspicuous that Covid-19. This explains why it is much more important to test and confirm if an individual has Covid-19.
The Corona Virus is transmitted through direct contact with the respiratory fluids of an infected person. These fluids are normally produced as droplets through sneezing and coughing. People can also get infected by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces using their hands and touching their faces, especially the mouth, nose, and eyes. The Corona Virus has the capability of surviving on surfaces for hours or even days. However, disinfectants, sanitizers, and specific sterilizers can kill it.
Since the emergence of the disease, people have been learning more about how it affects people. The elderly and those with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, appear to be at high risk of showing severe Covi9 symptoms. Since it is a new virus, virologists are still investigating how it affects children. It can be noted that persons of every age can get infected with the Corona Virus. However, there are significantly fewer cases of the disease reported among children. Since it is a new disease, it is important to carry out studies regarding incubation periods on individuals of different ages.
Currently, there are no proven vaccines for Covid-19. Nevertheless, most of its symptoms can be treated through early care from medical practitioners. This helps in reducing the fatality of the disease. Several clinical trials have been conducted to assess possible therapeutics for the disease. Further, as with other respiratory complications like common cold and flu, it is important to observe public health measures to slow down or prevent the spread of the virus. There are a variety of public health measures that can be daily preventive actions for the virus. They include:
- Being in isolation when symptoms start to show.
- Covering nose and mouth with a towel or flexed elbow when sneezing or coughing.
- Washing hands regularly with soap and running water.
- Frequent cleaning of surfaces.
The outbreak of the Covid-19 disease has resulted in a global pandemic that has had notable impacts on the way people perceive their lives and surrounding. The rates of contagion, as well as the patterns of transmission, have threatened humanity’s sense of agency. Additionally, the measures put in place to slow down or prevent the spread require our actions. For instance, people are supposed to practice social distancing, appropriate hygiene, and adherence to other World Health Organization (WHO) provisions. Within this context, it can be realized that the media has been an important tool in creating awareness among global citizens on the significance of observing the WHO provisions. During these harsh health conditions, mass media has been recognized as a powerful tool in shaping how people experience the current situation. Along with this recognition is a growing number of researches that closely monitors technological advancements that attempt to map the impacts of mass media on how people are supposed to cope with this disease. Both broadcast and digital media are playing a critical role in conveying a sense of unity to large audiences. Their information conveyed is critical in not only creating awareness but giving people hope on the mitigation measures of the disease. Through social media, those affected by the disease can get solace from friends and global citizens. For instance, when Italy faced a period of mass infections and deaths, the world stood by them and gave them consolation messages through social media platforms. During this pandemic, there have been recommendations to welcome studies addressing the role of media and its impact globally. Some of the most constructive topics that should be addressed with regard to the role and impact of media during the pandemic may include:
- Effective communication for the adoption of appropriate preventive measures of Covid-19
- Public health awareness to enhance psychological resilience and resources in distinct socioeconomic conditions and age groups.
- Effective approaches for helping people adopt preventive measures.
- Reduction of prejudice, inequalities, and stigma among those affected by Covid-19.
In conclusion, the emergence of the Corona Virus has had great health, economic and social impacts. This disease has affected people globally. Many countries are experiencing a recession because their marketing shares are declining. There is a great loss in global income as the health of individuals is continually being threatened. It is therefore recommended that global citizens observe the WHO provisions to reduce or prevent the spread of the virus as scientists are working on a possible vaccine and treatment.