Since the outbreak of 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic ,most of the people are confused about the efficacy of using masks to prevent the spreading of  the contagious infection. WHO suggests you to wear a mask only if you are infected or taking care of a person suspected 2019-nCoV infection.

When to use a mask

How to put on, use, take off and dispose of a mask

Since the outbreak of 2019-20 coronavirus pandemic, most of the people are confused about the efficacy of using masks to prevent the spreading of  the contagious infection. WHO suggests you to wear a mask only if you are infected or taking care of a person suspected 2019-nCoV infection.

The outbreak of 2019-nCoV was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei, China, in December 2019 and recognised as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020. As of 17 March 2020, more than 190,000 cases of the disease have been reported in over 160 countries and territories, China, Europe, Iran, South Korea and United states are the regions affected by major outbreaks.

Coronavirus is primarily spread among people in a similar manner to influenza, via respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. It is considered most contagious when people are symptomatic. But transmission may still be possible before symptoms appear.

The time between exposure and the onset of symptoms is typically five days, But the range may vary from two to fourteen days. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Complications may include pneumonia and acute respiratory distress symptom.

Currently there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for this condition. Treatment efforts consist of alleviation of symptoms and supportive therapy.

Recommended preventive measures include 

Hand washing

Covering the mouth when coughing

Social distancing

Monitoring and self-isolation for fourteen days (for people who suspect they are infected)

Efforts to prevent transmission include

Travel restrictions

Quarantine

Curfews

Event postponements and cancellations

Facility closures

Border closures or incoming passenger restrictions

Screening methods at airports and train stations

Travel advisories regarding regions with community transmission

.Source:

WHO (Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Advice for the Public

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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