Understanding Coronavirus Symptoms and Risks
1. Incubation Period and Symptoms
A lot remains to be learned about Coronavirus (COVID-19), but certain symptoms are well-known:
- Incubation Period: World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests up to 14 days, sometimes longer.
- Symptoms Onset: Typically manifests in about 5 days.
2. Severity and Recovery Rates
Based on WHO data from 44,000 patients:
- Severity: 81% developed mild symptoms, 14% severe, and 5% critically ill.
- Death Rate: Estimated between 1-2%, though figures may vary as the situation evolves.
- Recovery: Approximately 80% recover without medical intervention; some remain asymptomatic.
3. Main Symptoms
The primary symptoms of coronavirus include:
- High Temperature: Feeling hot to touch on chest or back.
- Continuous Cough: Persistent coughing for more than an hour, or multiple episodes in 24 hours.
- Loss of Smell or Taste: Inability to smell or taste, or alteration in smell or taste perception.
Most individuals with coronavirus experience at least one of these symptoms.
4. Additional Symptoms
Other possible symptoms include:
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Diarrhoea
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms often start mildly and progress gradually.
5. Risks and Precautions
Some individuals may be asymptomatic carriers, posing a risk of transmission:
- High-Risk Groups: Elderly or those with existing medical conditions should seek medical attention for symptoms.
- Medical Attention: Contact medical services if symptoms of fever, cough, or breathing difficulties arise; avoid visiting hospitals directly.