The coronavirus is part of a family of viruses

Coronaviruses are part of a family of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses, from the common cold to severe lung infection. So far, two coronaviruses have led to serious epidemics in humans: SARS responsible for a global epidemic in 2002-2003 and Mers-CoV in 2012. 

The symptoms are diverse

The first symptoms of the Covid-19 infection are similar to those of the flu. The most commonly observed are fever with chills, accompanied by a dry cough and severe fatigue. Digestive disorders (especially diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting) may appear. Other symptoms are characteristic of Covid-19, but less common, such as muscle aches, conjunctivitis, headaches, loss of taste and smell, and a rash such as hives or frostbite. The more serious signs are shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing, witnesses of a more or less severe infection. A feeling of pain or tightness in the chest may occur. The government has developed an online questionnaire if you think you have symptoms related to Covid-19. Its purpose is to guide people in the process to follow and in no way constitutes medical advice. 

It mainly affects fragile people

The coronavirus can affect anyone. 

But people with associated conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney disease, or even immunocompromised, are at greater risk of experiencing complications from the coronavirus, although everyone can be concerning. 

No treatment exists to date

There is no treatment or medication for the virus. Taking antibiotics does not help because it is not a bacteria. The remedies indicated are similar to those for the flu: it is advisable to rest and hydrate regularly. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs is contraindicated in the case of a Covid-19 infection. Clinical trials are underway all over the world. For the moment, health professionals are relieving symptoms and trying to offer the best possible care in the context of resuscitation. 

It is spread through close contact

People can spread the coronavirus to each other through close contact, with viral particles usually spreading within a meter radius of an infected person. On the other hand, the virus is very fragile outside the human body, which means that it cannot be caught from a package or an envelope. There are many effective measures to protect yourself as much as possible from the coronavirus. 

The Covid-19 coronavirus does not come from pets

In China, there have been reports of abandonment of domestic animals due to the coronavirus. At present, there is no evidence that cats and dogs can be infected even though scientists suspect the virus to come from several places where people coexist closely with living or dead animals intended for human consumption (market from Wuhan). Cats and dogs would therefore not be carriers of the new coronavirus. It is humans who allow the virus to circulate. 

Diagnosis is easy

The suspicion of the diagnosis is currently based on the existence of signs of acute respiratory infection in a person exposed to the virus during the 14 days before the onset of symptoms. A specific diagnostic test, developed by the National Reference Center for Respiratory Infection Viruses (including influenza) at the Institut Pasteur is also available. 

There is a telephone platform

Since February 1, the Ministry of Solidarity and Health has activated the “New Coronavirus” information telephone platform. Accessible on 0800 130 000, it provides information on Covid-19 and advice if you have traveled to an area where the virus circulates or rubbed shoulders with people who have circulated there.

Patient care is specific

Regarding the new coronavirus, patient care is total. Medical surveillance, hospitalization, resuscitation and return home are strictly supervised by means of precise protocols.

Signs of respiratory infection, in a person who has traveled or stayed in China, Singapore, South Korea, Iran or the regions of Lombardy and Veneto in Italy, in the 14 days before the onset of symptoms require appropriate care in one of the establishments identified on French territory for the management of possible and confirmed cases of MERS-CoV infections. 

Containment is the best way to contain the epidemic

The authorities keep repeating it: the best way to limit the contagion of the virus is to limit human-to-human contact because this is how the virus spreads, and this, exponentially. It is therefore strongly recommended not to leave your home, except when necessary: ​​going to work (when it is not possible to work from home) and shopping. It is important not to visit friends or parents, especially if they are among the more fragile people (see section above).  

Since the gradual deconfinement in France, on May 11, 2020, protective measures must be respected. Wearing a mask is compulsory in some cities, even outdoors, under penalty of a fine. You should wash your hands regularly with hydro-alcoholic gel or soap and water and keep at least 1 meter away from each other. It is recommended that you cough into your elbow or into a disposable tissue and then throw it away. Kissing is best avoided, as is putting your hands up to your face. 

Updated August 31, 2020 at 15:30 p.m.