Question 1

what are coronaviruses?

Accepted Answer

Coronavirus: Coronaviruses are common viruses that most people get some time in their life. Coronaviruses are named for the crown-like spikes on their surface.  Human coronaviruses usually cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses.

Question 2

what are coronaviruses, and what makes the novel coronavirus so bad?

Accepted Answer

COVID 19: There are 7 identified coronaviruses that infect people to include common human coronaviruses as well as MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS-CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome /SARS). REF:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. COVID 19 is a real problem because we have no natural defenses for it and it is quite contagious.

Question 3

in what ways are coronaviruses transmitted?

Accepted Answer

Coronavirus: Transmission is via droplets from the respiratory tract, ie sneezing and coughing. These droplets are thought not to travel more than six feet which is why this is used for social distancing. When these droplets land on surfaces, they can last for hours or 3 days depending on the surface.
Stay safe and follow the guidelines.You especially vulnerable because of your age.

Question 4

coronavirus how do we test?

Accepted Answer

Lab if necessary: Most commercial labs such as Lancet, Ampath and Pathcare can test. But the labs are stretched and test kits in short supply. Only tests if:
You have symptoms that are not resolving
You have been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19
You have traveled from a high risk area

Question 5

how long coronavirus can live ?

Accepted Answer

Covid-19: The virus has varied calculated "lifespans" depending on the surface on which it is deposited.  Hard surfaces are easily disinfected, with a variety of substances, but fabrics like clothing may harbor the active virus for days in some instances. It is best to disinfect all surfaces and clothing which may have been exposed with standard agents or soap and water to diminish viral activity.

Question 6

will everyone catch coronavirus?

Accepted Answer

Catching Covid-19: It's not very likely that everyone will the Coronavirus. It is even less likely with the social distancing rules that are in place. If you mind your distancing, wash your hands frequently and wear a mask when you're out then your risk for catching it will be lowered.

Question 7

what are symptoms of coronavirus ?

Accepted Answer

COVID 19 Sx's: may include fever, cough, feeling tired, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, chills, chest pain, nasal congestion, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Get urgent care for difficulty breathing, blue lips, persistent chest pain/ pressure or new onset confusion. REF:  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963

Question 8

can you get the coronavirus twice?

Accepted Answer

Unknown: Current theory is that the coronavirus may be like other "cold" viruses where there are small mutations occurring as the virus spreads. Over the months/years, if a person who has had the virus is re-exposed to a mutated version, they will catch the disease again. Vaccines work by helping the body recognize certain specific aspects of the virus that may not mutate as much (because they are vital)

Question 9

what if my dog gets the coronavirus?

Accepted Answer

Take your dog to vet: A 17-year-old Pomeranian dog in Hong Kong tested positive for COVID 19. If your animal appears to be ill, get it medically evaluated. There is currently no evidence that pets transmit  COVID 19 disease to humans. However the virus can live on porous surfaces for a short period of time (ie. dog's hair).

Question 10

in what ways is coronavirus transmitted?

Accepted Answer

Droplets: Aerosolized droplets are likely the major mode of transmission.

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

What are coronaviruses

A member asked:

What are coronaviruses?

A member asked:

What are coronaviruses, and what makes the novel coronavirus so bad?

A member asked:

In what ways are coronaviruses transmitted?

A member asked:

Coronavirus how do we test?

A member asked:

How long coronavirus can live ?

A member asked:

Will everyone catch coronavirus?

A member asked:

What are symptoms of coronavirus ?

A member asked:

Can you get the coronavirus twice?

A member asked:

What if my dog gets the coronavirus?

A member asked:

In what ways is coronavirus transmitted?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?