Unprecedented Times
It's been 100 years since the last pandemic took hold of the world and it's fair to say it's been a very rocky start to 2020.
In order to get through the various lockdown and socially restricted situations in the UK and various other countries , we've prepared a list of go to resources for information that may be helpful when dealing with the outbreak.
What is COVID 19 ?
COVID 19 is the name given to the infection sustained when one is in infected by the SAR-CoV-2 virus. The symptoms are said to be similar to that of the influenza Virus. The key difference is that this new Corona Virus ( Virus that can move from Animal to Human) is that it is extremely easy to transmit from human to human.
The other key feature is that it can cause severe complications with the immune system's responses and in severe cases can lead to pneumonia and extreme respiratory distress. As a result it is of the utmost importance in order to limit the spread to prevent as many infections as possible.
This ensure our most vulnerable citizens don't suffer severe infections as a result of old age and or a pre-existing condition that would prevent them from being able to fight the infection without medical intervention.
For most people COVID 19 is a mild infection. Characterised by a fever of 37.8c or and including a new and continuous dry cough. Children and younger adults are at lower risks from symptoms of COVID 19 , however they are exceptional carriers of the Virus due to their high rate of social contact at schools, universities and night life social encounters.
Precautions
The SARS CoV-2 Virus can be transmitted by air over short distances and in poor air circulation. Therefore the government has asked that social encounters be limited to only essential encounters. Also it is recommended to keep a 2 meter personal distance from person to person when facing one another.
The primary route for transmission however, is by contact. The Virus can last for extended periods of time on surfaces. So it is recommended to wash one's hands after any contact with random objects and surfaces. It is imperative that people avoid touching their faces to avoid any Viral matter picked up from surface contact entering the mouth, eyes or nose where the Virus can find a foothold.
What to do if you experience symptoms
Current advise from the UK authorities is that if you experience symptoms of a new continuous dry cough and or fever of 37.8c , then you should quarantine or isolate yourself along with all other members of your household.
However it is not recommended that senior citizens of 70 years old or older isolate with the other members of the household due to the higher risk of severe complications for their age group.
Ideally those over 70 should pair up with other senior citizen companions prior to any signs of infection and avoid contact with those who have symptoms and any other people as much as possible.
If you experience symptoms do not call 111.
Instead visit their online platform for advise here: https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19
Here you can confirm diagnoses and the NHS will guide you from there.
What can else can you do ?
There are things you can do to improve your outlook should you contract the Corona Virus and become infected.
Treat your body well and bolster your immune system. You can do this by being sure to get a good night's rest. Probably the single most important thing to do for your immune system.
Eat well ! A balanced and varied diet will provide the proteins, vitamins and minerals you need to fight infections. Be sure to use a multi Vitamin that also contains Vitamin D. Vitamin D is proven to be effective against respiratory infections in particular .
Try to exercise if at all possible. Although it's not a good idea to exhaust yourself , a bit of regular exercise will oxygenate your blood, release endorphins , keep general health in good order and is mentally good for you if you find yourself working from home with limited social contact.
What to avoid if you get infected :
If you get infected you will experience a fever, aches and pains like you would a flue at the peak of the infection. It is strongly recommended you do not suppress your fever. The fever is the main tool your body will use to beat the COVID 19 infection.
This is because the Virus is incredibly vulnerable to temperature. If you suppress the fever, the infection has been shown to become more virulent and aggressive.
This means you need to avoid anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen. If you must use pain relief it is best to use paracetamol. However exercise caution and consult your doctor before taking any medications.
For more information and daily updates on symptoms, management of infection and other medical advice we recommend you Visit Dr John Campbell's Youtube channel :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWo5lmWuZI
Dr Campbell's advice on Vitamin D and immunity : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5yVGmfivAk
More information from the World Health Organisation
For more information on the Virus, the disease and other factors like travel, myth busting and the global scale of this pandemic please visit : https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Stay Safe
Only travel and socialise if you absolutely must. Do your part ,and it will save thousands of lives.
Tune into the news everyday as the situation evolves rapidly from day to day. It is imperative we follow the governments guidelines and laws on this situation for their plans to work.
From Everyone at Ziggicg,
Good luck and we hope to see you all again once this situation is contained. We have quite a few features coming to this site to help those who are isolated or working from home. So stay tuned to this site and our social media for updates.
Visit this page for regular service updates: https://ziggicig.com/blog/service-update-from-ziggi
FYI
If you fancy a good pod cast on the topic, Joe Rogan's chat with Michael Osterholm makes for a good listen.
It's from a little while ago so more is known about this now than when the pod cast was recorded however Osterholm gives a very realistic, unbiased and honest evaluation of the situation we find ourselves in.
You can find the Podcast Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3URhJx0NSw