Does The Coronavirus Have A Cure? COVID-19

The World Health Organisation defines the Corona viruses  as a family of viruses that have symptoms ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory diseases. The strain discovered in 2019 Wuhan China was given the distinct name that everyone has now herd of COVID-19.

Now the main question, does it have a cure? Unfortunately not just yet. The human body is extremely advanced in fighting virus infection. Antibodies specific for viral surface antigens are often crucial in containing the spread of a virus. They fight the virus and often neutralize it by preventing replication. However the virus can mutate and avoid the human defense system. Survival of the virus requires that it spreads to a new host in order to replicate. Once the COVID-19 is inside the host patients will experience symptoms of coughing, fever and shortness of breath.     

The road to successful development of a safe and effective vaccine that can be approved for human use, manufactured at reasonable cost, and effectively delivered to a at risk population is a long, expensive and tedious task. Strict regulations must be met and clinical trials must be completed with success. If the vaccine is given the all clear, it can be injected into patients so the bodies immune system can recognize the virus and create a strong defense mechanism. If enough people are vaccinated herd immunity can be achieved where the entire population is considered safe from that strain of virus.

What to do in the mean time? 

As a vaccine requires 6-18 months to be to be developed, the National Health Service NHS has given us clear instruction and guidelines on how to proceed as the UK chief medical officers have raised the risk to the public from low to moderate. The tips include on what travelers should do if they have been to certain areas of the world. Also tips on how to prevent the spread of the virus.The following should be done at all times

1. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds
2. Use hand sanitiser gel if water is not available. 
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. (not with bare hands but with a tissue)
4. Put used tissue in the bin and wash your hands
5. Avoid contact with people who are unwell. 
6. DO NOT touch your eyes or mouth if your hands are not clean. 

Dettol.co.uk has many products that are extremely helpful and effective in preventing the spread of Coronavirus. 

For more technical guidance and protective advice visit the WHO (World Health Organisation) website.