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#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: People of all ages can be #infected by the #COVID-19 virus

Older people and younger people can be infected by the COVID-19 virus. Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.  WHO advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, for example by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: #Antibiotics CANNOT prevent or treat #COVID-19

Antibiotics work only against bacteria, not viruses. COVID-19 is caused by a virus, and therefore antibiotics should not be used for prevention or treatment. However, if you are hospitalized for COVID-19, you may receive antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: #Thermal #scanners CANNOT detect #COVID-19

Thermal scanners are effective in detecting people who have a fever (i.e. have a higher than normal body temperature). They cannot detect people who are infected with COVID-19. There are many causes of fever. Call your healthcare provider if you need assistance or seek immediate medical care if you have fever and live in an area with malaria or dengue. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Most people who get #COVID-19 #recover from it

Most people who get COVID-19 have mild or moderate symptoms and can recover thanks to supportive care. If you have a cough, fever and difficulty breathing seek medical care early - call your health facility by telephone first. If you have fever and live in an area with malaria or dengue seek medical care immediately. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: The prolonged use of #medical masks* when properly worn, DOES NOT cause CO2 #intoxication nor #oxygen deficiency

 The prolonged use of medical masks can be uncomfortable. However, it does not lead to CO2 intoxication nor oxygen deficiency. While wearing a medical mask, make sure it fits properly and that it is tight enough to allow you to breathe normally. Do not re-use a disposable mask and always change it as soon as it gets damp. * Medical masks (also known as surgical masks) are flat or pleated; they are affixed to the head with straps or have ear loops. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: The coronavirus disease (#COVID-19) is caused by a #virus, NOT by #bacteria

 The virus that causes COVID-19 is in a family of viruses called Coronaviridae. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Some people who become ill with COVID-19 can also develop a bacterial infection as a complication. In this case, antibiotics may be recommended by a health care provider. There is currently no licensed medication to cure COVID-19. If you have symptoms, call your health care provider or COVID-19 hotline for assistance. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: The likelihood of #shoes spreading #COVID-19 is very low

The likelihood of COVID-19 being spread on shoes and infecting individuals is very low. As a precautionary measure, particularly in homes where infants and small children crawl or play on floors, consider leaving your shoes at the entrance of your home. This will help prevent contact with dirt or any waste  that could be carried on the soles of shoes. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: People should #NOT #wear #masks while #exercising

 People should NOT wear masks when exercising, as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. Sweat can make the mask become wet more quickly which makes it difficult to breathe and promotes the growth of microorganisms. The important preventive measure during exercise is to maintain physical distance of at least one meter from others. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID19 #coronavirus FACT: Studies show #hydroxychloroquine does not have #clinical benefits in #treating #COVID-19

 Hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, a treatment for malaria, lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis, has been under study as a possible treatment for COVID-19. Current data shows that this drug does not reduce deaths among hospitalised COVID-19 patients, nor help people with moderate disease.* The use of hydoxychloroquine and chloroquine is accepted as generally safe for patients with malaria and autoimmune diseases, but its use where not indicated and without medical supervision can cause serious side effects and should be avoided. * More decisive research is needed to assess its value in patients with mild disease or as pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis in patients exposed to COVID-19. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #Coronavirus FACT: #Vitamin and #mineral supplements cannot #cure #COVID-19 .

Micronutrients, such as vitamins D and C and zinc, are critical for a well-functioning immune system and play a vital role in promoting health and nutritional well-being.  There is currently no guidance on the use of micronutrient supplements as a treatment of COVID-19. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: There are currently no #drugs licensed for the #treatment or #prevention of #COVID-19

While several drug trials are ongoing, there is currently no proof that hydroxychloroquine or any other drug can cure or prevent COVID-19. The misuse of hydroxychloroquine can cause serious side effects and illness and even lead to death. WHO is coordinating efforts to develop and evaluate medicines to treat COVID-19. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Adding #pepper to your #soup or other meals DOES NOT #prevent or #cure #COVID-19

Hot peppers in your food, though very tasty, cannot prevent or cure COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against the new coronavirus is to keep at least 1 metre away from others and to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. It is also beneficial for your general health to maintain a balanced diet, stay well hydrated, exercise regularly and sleep well. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: COVID-19 is NOT #transmitted through #houseflies

To date, there is no evidence or information to suggest that the COVID-19 virus transmitted through houseflies. The virus that cause COVID-19 spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. You can also become infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands. To protect yourself, keep at least 1-metre distance from others and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces. Clean your hands thoroughly and often and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Spraying and introducing bleach or another disinfectant into your body WILL NOT protect you against COVID-19 and can be dangerous

 Do not under any circumstance spray or introduce bleach or any other disinfectant into your body. These substances can be poisonous if ingested and cause irritation and damage to your skin and eyes. Bleach and disinfectant should be used carefully to disinfect surfaces only. Remember to keep chlorine (bleach) and other disinfectants out of reach of children. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Exposing yourself to the sun or #temperatures higher than 25°C DOES NOT #protect you from #COVID-19

You can catch COVID-19, no matter how sunny or hot the weather is. Countries with hot weather have reported cases of COVID-19. To protect yourself, make sure you clean your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.   Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Catching #COVID-19 DOES NOT mean you will have it for #life

Most of the people who catch COVID-19 can recover and eliminate the virus from their bodies. If you catch the disease, make sure you treat your symptoms. If you have cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early – but call your health facility by telephone first. Most patients recover thanks to supportive care. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Being able to hold your breath for 10 seconds or more without coughing or feeling discomfort DOES NOT mean you are #free from #COVID-19

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are dry cough, tiredness and fever. Some people may develop more severe forms of the disease, such as pneumonia. The best way to confirm if you have  the virus producing COVID-19 disease is with a laboratory test.  You cannot confirm it with this breathing exercise, which can even be dangerous. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int)   Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: The #COVID-19 virus can spread in #hot and #humid climates

The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by maintaining physical distance of at least 1 metre from others and frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Cold weather and snow CANNOT #kill the #COVID-19 virus

There is no reason to believe that cold weather can kill the new coronavirus or other diseases. The normal human body temperature remains around 36.5°C to 37°C, regardless of the external temperature or weather. The most effective way to protect yourself against the new coronavirus is by frequently cleaning your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or washing them with soap and water. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Taking a hot bath does not #prevent #COVID-19

Taking a hot bath will not prevent you from catching COVID-19. Your normal body temperature remains around 36.5°C to 37°C, regardless of the temperature of your bath or shower. Actually, taking a hot bath with extremely hot water can be harmful, as it can burn you. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT - The #COVID-19 virus CANNOT be spread through #mosquito bites

To date there has been no information nor evidence to suggest that the new coronavirus could be transmitted by mosquitoes. The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Also, avoid close contact with anyone who is coughing and sneezing. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Hand dryers are NOT effective in #killing the #COVID-19 virus

Hand dryers are not effective in killing the COVID-19 virus. To protect yourself, frequently clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Once your hands are cleaned, you should dry them thoroughly by using paper towels or a warm air dryer. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Vaccines against #pneumonia DO NOT protect against the #COVID-19 virus

 Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, and WHO is supporting their efforts. Although these vaccines are not effective against COVID-19, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

#COVID-19 #coronavirus FACT: Rinsing your nose with saline does NOT #prevent #COVID-19

There is no evidence that regularly rinsing the nose with saline has protected people from infection with the new coronavirus.  There is some limited evidence that regularly rinsing the nose with saline can help people recover more quickly from the common cold. However, regularly rinsing the nose has not been shown to prevent respiratory infections. Source: World Health Organisation (www.who.int) Share this trusted information.

What are the #top #10 causes of #death worldwide ?

Of the 56.9 million deaths worldwide in 2016, more than half (54%) were due to the top 10 causes. Ischaemic heart disease and stroke are the world’s biggest killers, accounting for a combined 15.2 million deaths in 2016. These diseases have remained the leading causes of death globally in the last 15 years. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease claimed 3.0 million lives in 2016, while lung cancer (along with trachea and bronchus cancers) caused 1.7 million deaths. Diabetes killed 1.6 million people in 2016, up from less than 1 million in 2000. Deaths due to dementias more than doubled between 2000 and 2016, making it the 5th leading cause of global deaths in 2016 compared to 14th in 2000. Lower respiratory infections remained the most deadly communicable disease, causing 3.0 million deaths worldwide in 2016. The death rate from diarrhoeal diseases decreased by almost 1 million between 2000 and 2016, but still caused 1.4 million deaths in 2016. Similarly, the number of tuberculosis deat

How to Hand Rub ? #handrub

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How to Hand Wash ? #handwash

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What is Triple negative #breast #cancer ( #TripleNegativeBreastCancer ) ?

Triple negative breast cancer is an uncommon type of breast cancer whose cells don’t have receptors for: the hormones 1. oestrogen 2. progesterone and 3. Her2 protein  Your doctor uses a sample of your cancer to test the cells for these receptors. You might have this testing following a biopsy of the cancer, or after surgery to remove it. A rare type of breast cancer known as basal type breast cancer is usually triple negative.  Some women with triple negative breast cancer also have a BRCA1 gene fault.  BRCA1 is one of the gene faults that can increase the risk of breast cancer within families.  Some men have triple negative breast cancer but this is very rare.  Most men have oestrogen receptors in their cancer cells.  Breast cancer receptors  Some cancer cells have particular proteins called receptors. When certain substances in the body attach to the receptors, they trigger a reaction in the cancer cells that tell them to grow. Oestrogen attaches to oestrogen receptors Progesteron

Who is more likely to get a Deep Vein Thrombosis ?

Who is more likely to get DVT A DVT is more likely to happen if you: > are over 60 > are overweight > smoke > have had DVT before > take the contraceptive pill or HRT > have cancer or heart failure > have varicose veins There are also some temporary situations when you're at more risk of DVT. These include if you: > are staying in or recently left hospital – especially if you cannot move around much (like after an operation) >are confined to bed >go on a long journey (more than 3 hours) by plane, car or train >are pregnant or if you've had a baby in the previous 6 weeks >are dehydrated 

Does #Neanderthal #DNA increase the #risk for severe #COVD-19 ?

The Neanderthal genome project is an effort of a group of scientists to sequence the Neanderthal genome, founded in July 2006. It was initiated by 454 Life Sciences, a biotechnology company based in Branford, Connecticut in the United States and is coordinated by the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany. In May 2010 the project published their initial draft of the Neanderthal genome based on the analysis of four billion base remain in modern humans outside Africa. In December 2013, a high coverage genome of a Neanderthal was reported for the first time. It stemmed from a Neanderthal female bone fragment found in a cave in the Altai mountains of Siberia from around 50,000–100,000 years ago. As per the press release from Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. - 'A segment of DNA that causes their carriers to have an up to three times higher risk of developing severe Covid-19 is inherited from Neandertals.' 'Covid-19 affects some people mu

What causes #Alzheimer's disease ?

Alzheimer's disease is thought to be caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells. One of the proteins involved is called amyloid, deposits of which form plaques around brain cells. The other protein is called tau, deposits of which form tangles within brain cells. Although it's not known exactly what causes this process to begin, scientists now know that it begins many years before symptoms appear. As brain cells become affected, there's also a decrease in chemical messengers (called neurotransmitters) involved in sending messages, or signals, between brain cells. Levels of one neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, are particularly low in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. Over time, different areas of the brain shrink. The first areas usually affected are responsible for memories. In more unusual forms of Alzheimer's disease, different areas of the brain are affected. The first symptoms may be problems with vision or language rather

FACT: Drinking methanol, ethanol or bleach DOES NOT prevent or cure COVID-19 and can be extremely dangerous

Methanol, ethanol, and bleach are poisons. Drinking them can lead to disability and death. Methanol, ethanol, and bleach are sometimes used in cleaning products to kill the virus on surfaces – however, you should never drink them. They will not kill the virus in your body and they will harm your internal organs. To protect yourself against COVID-19, disinfect objects and surfaces, especially the ones you touch regularly. You can use diluted bleach or alcohol for that. Make sure you clean your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.

What is Faecal microbiota transplant or stool transplant for Clostridium difficile infection?

Faecal microbiota transplant (FMT), also known as a stool transplant is the process of transferring faecal bacteria and other microbes from a healthy individual into another individual. FMT is an effective treatment for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Side effects may include a risk of infections, therefore the donor should be screened. FMT involves restoration of the colonic microflora by introducing healthy bacterial flora through an infusion of stool via colonoscopy, enema, orogastric tube, or by mouth in the form of a capsule containing faeces from a healthy donor, which in some cases is freeze-dried. With CDI becoming more common, FMT is gaining increasing prominence, with some experts calling for it to become the first-line therapy for CDI. FMT has been used experimentally to treat other gastrointestinal diseases, including colitis, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's.

What are Type1, Type2 and Gestational Diabetes ?

Type 1 diabetes (previously known as insulin-dependent, juvenile or childhood-onset) is characterized by deficient insulin production and requires daily administration of insulin. Neither the cause of Type 1 diabetes nor the means to prevent it are known. Symptoms include excessive excretion of urine (polyuria), thirst (polydipsia), constant hunger, weight loss, vision changes, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur suddenly. Gestational diabetes  Type 2 diabetes (formerly called non-insulin-dependent, or adult-onset) results from the body’s ineffective use of insulin. The majority of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. This type of diabetes is largely the result of excess body weight and physical inactivity. Symptoms may be similar to those of type 1 diabetes, but are often less marked. As a result, the disease may be diagnosed several years after onset, after complications have already arisen. Until recently, this type of diabetes was seen only in adults but it is now also

What are the symptoms of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome ( #SARS ) ?

 The incubation period of SARS is usually 2-7 days but may be as long as 10 days. The first symptom of the illness is generally fever (>38°C), which is often high, and sometimes associated with chills and rigors. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms including headache, malaise, and muscle pain. At the onset of illness, some cases have mild respiratory symptoms. Typically, rash and neurologic or gastrointestinal findings are absent, although a few patients have reported diarrhoea during the early febrile stage. After 3-7 days, a lower respiratory phase begins with the onset of a dry, non-productive cough or dyspnoea (shortness of breath) that may be accompanied by, or progress to, hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels). In 10–20% of cases, the respiratory illness is severe enough to require intubation and mechanical ventilation. Chest radiographs may be normal throughout the course of illness, though not for all patients. The white blood cell count is often decreased early in th

What is Severe acute respiratory syndrome ( #SARS ) ?

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory disease caused by a SARS-associated coronavirus. It was first identified at the end of February 2003 during an outbreak that emerged in China and spread to 4 other countries. WHO co-ordinated the international investigation with the assistance of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) and worked closely with health authorities in affected countries to provide epidemiological, clinical and logistical support and to bring the outbreak under control. SARS is an airborne virus and can spread through small droplets of saliva in a similar way to the cold and influenza. It was the first severe and readily transmissible new disease to emerge in the 21st century and showed a clear capacity to spread along the routes of international air travel. SARS can also be spread indirectly via surfaces that have been touched by someone who is infected with the virus. Most patients identified with SARS were previously healthy a

How can I prevent Salmonella infection at home?

Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. Salmonella bacteria typically live in animal and human intestines and are shed through faeces. Humans become infected most frequently through contaminated water or food. Salmonellas are a group of common bacteria that cause food poisoning. They are usually spread by inadequate cooking and through cross-contamination. Salmonella bacteria are most often found in: raw meat undercooked poultry such as chicken or turkey eggs unpasteurised milk Young children, the elderly and people whose immune systems are not working properly have a greater risk of becoming severely ill with food poisoning caused by salmonella.  You can avoid most forms of food poisoning by following advice on the 4Cs of food hygiene: chilling cleaning cooking avoiding cross-contamination It’s also important to remember never to drink untreated water from lakes, rivers or streams. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soa

#Regeneron's #REGN-COV2 Antibody Cocktail for COVID-19 treatment - updates

REGN-COV2 is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies (REGN10933 and REGN10987) and was designed specifically to block infectivity of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.    Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, announced on 29/09/2020 the first data from a descriptive analysis of a seamless Phase 1/2/3 trial of its investigational antibody cocktail REGN-COV2 showing it reduced viral load and the time to alleviate symptoms in non-hospitalized patients with COVID-19. REGN-COV2 also showed positive trends in reducing medical visits. The ongoing, randomized, double-blind trial measures the effect of adding REGN-COV2 to usual standard-of-care, compared to adding placebo to standard-of-care.  REGN-COV2 rapidly reduced viral load through Day 7 in seronegative patients (key virologic endpoint). Patients with increasingly higher baseline viral levels had correspondingly greater reductions in viral load at Day 7 with REGN-COV2 treatment.  Patients who were seronegative and/or had higher baseline

What are the symptoms of Ebola virus disease ?

 The incubation period, that is, the time interval from infection with the virus to onset of symptoms, is from 2 to 21 days. A person infected with Ebola cannot spread the disease until they develop symptoms. Symptoms of EVD can be sudden and include: fever, fatigue, muscle, pain, headache, and sore throat. This is followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, symptoms of impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases internal and external bleeding (e.g. oozing from the gums, blood in the stools). Laboratory findings include low white blood cell and platelet counts and elevated liver enzymes. It can be difficult to clinically distinguish EVD from other infectious diseases such as malaria, typhoid fever and meningitis. A range of diagnostic tests have been developed to confirm the presence of the virus.

How to wear a Medical / Surgical mask ?

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What causes cancer?

Cancer arises from the transformation of normal cells into tumour cells in a multistage process that generally progresses from a pre-cancerous lesion to a malignant tumour.  These changes are the result of the interaction between a person's genetic factors and 3 categories of external agents, including:  physical carcinogens , such as ultraviolet and ionizing radiation;  chemical carcinogens , such as asbestos, components of tobacco smoke, aflatoxin (a food contaminant), and arsenic (a drinking water contaminant);  and biological carcinogens , such as infections from certain viruses, bacteria, or parasites.  Ageing is another fundamental factor for the development of cancer. The incidence of cancer rises dramatically with age, most likely due to a build-up of risks for specific cancers that increase with age. The overall risk accumulation is combined with the tendency for cellular repair mechanisms to be less effective as a person grows older.  Tobacco use, alcohol use, unhealthy

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, often abbreviated to EHDV, is a species of the genus Orbivirus, a member of the family Reoviridae. It is the causative agent of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, an acute, infectious, and often fatal disease of wild ruminants. In North America, the most severely affected ruminant is the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), although it may also infect mule deer, black-tailed deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn antelope. It is often mistakenly referred to as “bluetongue virus” (BTV), another Orbivirus that like EHDV causes the host to develop a characteristic blue tongue due to systemic hemorrhaging and lack of oxygen in the blood. Despite showing clinical similarities, these two viruses are genetically distinct. Worldwide, eight serotypes of EHDV have been identified. Historically, only serotypes EHDV-1 and EHDV-2 have been found in North America, but recent research has discovered at least one more in the Midwest and Southern United States.

Safe use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers

To protect yourself and others against COVID-19, clean your hands frequently and thoroughly. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wash your hands with soap and water. If you use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, make sure you use and store it carefully. Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizers out of children’s reach. Teach them how to apply the sanitizer and monitor its use. Apply a coin-sized amount on your hands. There is no need to use a large amount of the product. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose immediately after using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, as it can cause irritation. Hand sanitizers recommended to protect against COVID-19 are alcohol-based and therefore can be flammable. Do not use before handling fire or cooking. Under no circumstance, drink or let children swallow an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It can be poisonous.  Remember that washing your hands with soap and water is also effective against COVID-19.   Share this trusted information.

Remdesivir (Veklury)

Remdesivir, sold under the brand name Veklury, is a broad-spectrum antiviral medication developed by the biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences. It is administered via injection into a vein. Remdesivir is being tested as a treatment for COVID‑19, and has been authorized for emergency use in the US, India, Singapore, and approved for use in Japan, the European Union, and Australia for people with severe symptoms. It also received approval in the UK in May 2020; however, it was going to be rationed due to limited supply. It may shorten the time it takes to recover from the infection.  Share this trusted information.

Why was the use of hydroxychloroquine stopped in the Solidarity Trial?

On 17 June 2020, WHO announced that the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) arm of the Solidarity Trial to find an effective COVID-19 treatment was being stopped.  The trial's Executive Group and principal investigators made the decision based on evidence from the Solidarity trial, UK's Recovery trial and a Cochrane review of other evidence on hydroxychloroquine. Data from Solidarity (including the French Discovery trial data) and the recently announced results from the UK's Recovery trial both showed that hydroxychloroquine does not result in the reduction of mortality of hospitalised COVID-19 patients, when compared with standard of care.   Share this trusted information.

Brain eating ameba — Naegleria fowleri

Naegleria fowleri infects people when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose. Infection is rare and typically occurs when people go swimming or diving in warm freshwater places, like lakes and rivers. Very rarely, infections have been reported when people submerge their heads, cleanse their noses during religious practices, or irrigate their sinuses (nose) using contaminated tap or faucet water. Naegleria fowleri can grow in pipes, hot water heaters, and water systems, including treated public drinking water systems. You cannot get infected from drinking water contaminated with Naegleria. You can only be infected when contaminated water goes up into your nose.   Share this trusted information.

FACT: Vaccines against pneumonia DO NOT protect against the COVID-19 virus

Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, and WHO is supporting their efforts. Although these vaccines are not effective against COVID-19, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health.   Share this trusted information.

FACT: 5G mobile networks DO NOT spread COVID-19

Viruses cannot travel on radio waves/mobile networks. COVID-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks. COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose.    Share this trusted information.

Are vitamin D supplements needed if individuals are not exposed to sunlight due to lockdowns?

Vitamin D can be made in the skin by exposure to sunlight or obtained through the diet from natural sources (e.g. fatty fishes such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, fish liver oils, beef liver, cheese and egg yolks), or from vitamin D-fortified foods or vitamin D-containing supplements. In situations where individuals’ vitamin D status is already marginal or where foods rich in vitamin D (including vitamin D-fortified foods) are not consumed, and exposure to sunlight is limited, a vitamin D supplement in doses of the recommended nutrient intakes (200-600 IU, depending on age) or according to national guidelines may be considered.   Share this trusted information.

How to wear a non medical mask ?

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Can we prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes ?

Simple lifestyle measures have been shown to be effective in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes. To help prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications, people should: achieve and maintain a healthy body weight; be physically active – doing at least 30 minutes of regular, moderate-intensity activity on most days. More activity is required for weight control; eat a healthy diet, avoiding sugar and saturated fats; and avoid tobacco use – smoking increases the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  

How are COVID-19 and influenza viruses different?

The speed of transmission is an important point of difference between the two viruses. Influenza has a shorter median incubation period (the time from infection to appearance of symptoms) and a shorter serial interval (the time between successive cases) than COVID-19 virus. The serial interval for COVID-19 virus is estimated to be 5-6 days, while for influenza virus, the serial interval is 3 days. This means that influenza can spread faster than COVID-19. Further, transmission in the first 3-5 days of illness, or potentially pre-symptomatic transmission –transmission of the virus before the appearance of symptoms – is a major driver of transmission for influenza. In contrast, while we are learning that there are people who can shed COVID-19 virus 24-48 hours prior to symptom onset, at present, this does not appear to be a major driver of transmission. The reproductive number – the number of secondary infections generated from one infected individual – is understood to be between 2

How are COVID-19 and influenza viruses similar?

Firstly, COVID-19 and influenza viruses have a similar disease presentation. That is, they both cause respiratory disease, which presents as a wide range of illness from asymptomatic or mild through to severe disease and death. Secondly, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and fomites. As a result, the same public health measures, such as hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette (coughing into your elbow or into a tissue and immediately disposing of the tissue), are important actions all can take to prevent infection.   Share this trusted information.

How long does the COVID 19 virus survive on surfaces?

The most important thing to know about coronavirus on surfaces is that they can easily be cleaned with common household disinfectants that will kill the virus. Studies have shown that the COVID-19 virus can survive for up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, less than 4 hours on copper and less than 24 hours on cardboard. As, always clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.