There are certain facts about Covid-19—fairly surprising—that’ll help size up the monster and clear lots of myth about it

The coronavirus pandemic is testing humanity’s understanding of viruses—new variants are making containment and prevention of the spread one of the biggest the challenge in recent times. There have been some theories about how and when it will spread, the pattern of its waves, however, the virus defies all such predictions, and surprises people by its tenacity. It hits again and again—comes like a wave and sweeps all that comes in its way. Scientists have been puzzled all over the world to describe its true character—which keeps changing.

But there are certain facts—fairly surprising facts—that’ll help size up the monster and will help clear of myth floating around it. It is easier to understand the coronavirus by what it does…

One of the first symptoms, that’s not always the case, is loss of smell and taste.

One of the key reasons why coronavirus is so difficult to stop is because it binds 10 to 20 times more tightly to human cells than SARS-CoV (the virus responsible for SARS).

Though statistics show that children are less likely to be infected by a coronavirus, but babies—below 1 year—appear to be more vulnerable than older children.

Covid-19 virus can survive on surfaces for days. It spreads through respiratory droplets—either directly hence social distancing is advised or via an intermediate surface—therefore cup, plates of the infected patients shouldn’t be used by others and isolation is recommended. Researches have shown that the virus can live up to 24 hours on cardboard and 2 to 3 days on plastic and stainless steel.

People who don’t have symptoms can spread the virus, making containment of the pandemic an onerous challenge. The CDC estimates up to 40% of infected individuals do not experience symptoms. Therefore mask is an important tool in the prevention of the spread of infection—reduces the risk of unknowingly spreading the infection—and limiting social contact can go a long way in containing the spread of the pandemic.

People with Type-A blood are highly susceptible to catching the infection that may lead to respiratory complications while there were fewer cases in Type-O blood group.

Despite negative tests, and no symptoms, you might already be infected. Antibodies tests give evidence of past infections and may help us understand the true extent of the spread of the pandemic.

Covid-19 also manifests with digestive symptoms like lack of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. A study by The American Journal of Gastroenterology, showed nearly half of the people surveyed with Covid-19 had digestive symptoms.

Reinfections are possible. As a matter of fact, 10 to 30% of our common colds are caused by four different types of coronaviruses. And it’s common knowledge that a common cold doesn’t keep you from catching another common cold.

Vaccination is effective in preventing serious Covid-19 infections.

Courtesy: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Healthgrades.com

Disclaimer: The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.