20 Important Questions about COVID-19 Answered

COVID-19 or Coronavirus has been on the mind of people and why not? The disease has been declared as a pandemic and millions of people have been infected globally. While the cases continue to rise in India, there has been growing curiosity and concern among individuals to gather relevant information regarding the novel coronavirus. Its implications, precautions, and also a coronavirus health plan that can offer financial protection to deal with this global pandemic. Here is a list of 20 most asked questions related to Coronavirus:

FAQs

Q1. What is the COVID-19 pandemic?

Ans: COVID-19 pandemic is the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that started from China and has now spread across the world. The disease causes severe acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), that produces pneumonia like symptoms. Thought the recovery rate from coronavirus has increased, as there is no fixed treatment for this deadly virus that has led to millions of deaths worldwide.

Q2. Is there any specific coronavirus health plan?

Ans: Two specific coronavirus health plans have been launched recently i.e. Corona Kavach and Corona Rakshak coronavirus health plan. The IRDAI has asked all the general and health insurance companies in India to launch this product to specifically cover COVID-19 pandemic treatment in India. Corona Kavach health policy for coronavirus offers cover to families up to Rs 5 Lakh.

Whereas, the Corona Rakshak health insurance plan offers coverage on an individual basis, and requires hospitalization of minimum of 72 hours. Both plans cover the cost of hospitalization, doctor fees, ICU, room, and nursing charges. The cost of PPE kits, masks, gloves, ventilators is also covered. If you already have a health insurance plan then you can check with your insurer of the cost of consumables like PPE kits, masks, ventilators, is covered or not. You can also check if the cost of home hospitalization or Ayush treatment is included. Else you can buy any of these specific coronavirus health plans as per your preferences.

Q3. Who is at a higher risk of getting infected with coronavirus?

Ans: As per the World Health Organization (WHO), people of all the age are at risk of getting infected with coronavirus. However, people above 60 years and those with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, obesity, and cardiovascular ailments are more vulnerable to getting critically ill with COVID-19. Therefore, it has been advised that all the people maintain hand and respiratory hygiene and maintain social distancing.  

Q4. How long does it take to recover from COVID-19 infection?

Ans: As per the preliminary data and reports, the recovery time from the beginning of the infection to clinical recovery for mild cases is nearly 2 weeks, and for critical and severe patients the recovery period can range from 3 weeks to 6 weeks.

Q6. How dangerous is COVID-19?

Ans: As there is no fixed treatment available for COVID-19, and without the availability of the vaccine, COVID-19 imposes serious health threats. Although the recovery rate has improved in mild cases, lakhs of people have lost their lives succumbing to COVID-19. The disease can be fatal in rare cases especially for older people, and individuals with pre-existing illnesses such as heart ailments, high blood pressure, and diabetes remain more vulnerable.

Q7. Should I buy a coronavirus health plan?

Ans: If you do not have a health insurance policy then you should buy a coronavirus health plan. And if you have a medical insurance cover then check your policy terms and benefits if it offers adequate COVID-19 treatment cover including the cost of ventilators, PPE kits, gloves, oximeters, etc. The cost of these consumable items can significantly add to the cost of treatment.

Q8. Can SARS-CoV-2 infection spread through food?

Ans: As of now, there has been no evidence of transmission of COVID-19 infection through food.

Q9. Is headache a symptom of the COVID-19?

Ans: Coronavirus can cause different symptoms and headache is one of the most common symptoms among COVID-19 positive people. It can range from mild cough, sore throat, fever, to pneumonia.

Q10. Are babies at risk of catching coronavirus infection?

Ans: As of now there have been lesser cases of COVID-19 among babies around the world. However, it does not rule out the possibility of them catching the infection. People of all ages are prone to coronavirus if they not follow safety protocols.

Q11. Can coronavirus enter into my body though hands?

Ans: Hand hygiene is one of the most important measures that have been prescribed to curtail the spread of this deadly virus.  WHO has recommended washing hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds as hands and touched surfaces can easily pick up any virus. Once it is contaminated, it can get into your body upon touching your face, nose, and eyes.

Q12. Can you contract coronavirus by touching a surface?

Ans: It is possible to get infected with coronavirus if you touch a contaminated surface (doorbell, table, doorknobs, etc.), which has been touched by a COVID-19 positive person and then touch your face, nose, and eyes.

Q13. What are the most common symptoms of coronavirus?

Ans: Three most common symptoms of coronavirus are:

• Tiredness
• Dry cough
• Fever

Q14. Can I breastfeed my child if I am COVID positive?

Ans: If you are facing severe symptoms are not able to breastfeed your child directly, then you can use express milk formula that suits your infant till you recover.  It is suggested that you consult your medical practitioner during such complications.

Q15. How can I reduce stress during the lockdown and COVID-19 pandemic?

Ans: To reduce anxiety and stress, a lot of people are adapting to meditation and relaxation practices. Breathing exercises, yoga, and relaxation techniques can help you balance your state of mind and reduce hypertension symptoms also. If you can practice it regularly during this time of pandemic then you will be able to drastically reduce the mounting stress.

Q16. Are COVID-19 symptoms more severe than the flu?

Ans: Yes, COVID-19 symptoms are more severe in comparison to seasonal flu or influenza. This is a new type of virus for which people have not developed immunity, while people across the globe have developed immunity towards seasonal flu strains. As per reports, only 1% of deaths have been reported globally due to flu, whereas 3.4% of deaths have already been reported due to COVID-19.

Q17. Can I get coronavirus drinking water?

Ans: At present, there has been no evidence of catching coronavirus through drinking-water or sewage.

Q18. What percentage of COVID-19 positive patients need to get hospitalized?

Ans: As per the WHO guidelines, all the COVID-19 positive cases including patients with mild symptoms should be isolated in medical facilities, to prevent community transmission. As the situation worsens, the hospitals are already overwhelmed, and in such a situation, priority is given to critical patients facing difficulty in breathing and older patients with underlying conditions. Almost 80% of people are getting recovered without the need of any special treatment, and 20% are critically ill including deaths. And 1 out of every 5 people are getting infected with COVID-19 and develop breathing difficulties and therefore require hospital care.

Q19. What should I do if a person in my office is showing COVID-19 positive symptoms?

Ans: Firstly, have him/her wear a face mask and isolate the ill person from others in a separate room or area at the workplace untill it is examined by a doctor. Then immediately report to your concerned state health authorities on 1075.

Q20. Who should I call for coronavirus related queries?

Ans: For any coronavirus related queries, you can call 24X7 helpline number of your State Helpline/Ministry of Health & Family Welfare's at 011-23978046 or 1075.