By now the new novel coronavirus, Covid-19, needs no introduction; even for those of us who have not yet come into direct contact with it, it has begun to define all of our lives. The chances are that in the past few weeks you have already learnt more information about coronavirus than you have acquired about the herpes virus across a lifetime suffering from cold sores. Yes, the extraordinary measures that have been taken may sometimes feel draconian, but there is consensus among the experts: they are necessary.
And, yes, coronavirus is undoubtedly frightening even if we know that we as individuals are statistically likely to be fine – with around 45% of people who contract the virus showing no or only mild symptoms and the mortality rate among the healthy population relatively low. However, things are rather different for older people, with the over 70s and over 80s at particular risk. Furthermore, we also know that those with the following underlying health conditions are more likely to experience severe symptoms:
- Heart disease or other heart-related health issues.
- Diabetes
- Respiratory disease (including asthma)
You may also know that although Covid-19 is new to human populations, coronaviruses, in general, are not. They belong to an extensive family that includes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).
How did Covid-19 get to humans?
The coronavirus is zoonotic. This means that it can be transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans, while MERS-CoV was transmitted from dromedary camels to humans. Although we are not yet sure where Covid-19 came from, the most persuasive theory so far is that it came from bats, via a pangolin that was sold on China’s wild meat market. Chances are that we are going to have to change our approach to nature and animal agriculture if we want to reduce the chances of a similar pandemic occurring again; there are currently many coronaviruses in circulation in the animal population that are yet to be found in human populations.
What are the symptoms?
The most common signs of Covid-19 are a persistent dry cough, fever, difficulty breathing and other respiratory symptoms. More severe cases may result in viral pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome and kidney failure.
How do I stay protected?
At the moment you should follow and where possible even exceed the official government advice by practising social distancing, following good hygiene practices and, where possible, keeping isolated. Wash your hands like a doctor – this means creating a good lather, washing for at least twenty seconds and ensuring that you do not neglect to also wash between your fingers, the back of your hands and under the edges of your nails. Furthermore, you should always cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, avoid exposure to anyone who is displaying symptoms of respiratory illness and never leave the house without hand sanitiser that is at least 60% alcohol-based. Lastly, as studies indicate that much of the ‘shed and spread’ of coronavirus may take place during the early phase of infection and also when people are infected but asymptomatic, you should treat even those who appear perfectly well with caution. Similarly, you may have it without realising that you do, so remember that good hygiene is not just about ensuring that you don’t catch the virus; it is also about ensuring that you do not unwittingly pass it on to someone else.
Lastly, if you have any symptoms, you should self-isolate for up to 14 days (the same goes for any person in your household who may have been exposed to you).
How do I boost my immune system?
The good news is that if you already eat an antiviral diet to try and combat cold sore outbreaks, you may just be giving your immune system that extra bit of protection.
Some foods that help boost the immune system include:
- Elderberry and blueberries.
- Mushrooms.
- Leafy green vegetables.
- Oysters (and other zinc-rich foods).
- Live fermented foods (including kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi).
- Garlic, ginger and onions.
- Chicken soup and other bone-based broths
Also, as difficult as it may be at the moment, it is important to get some sunlight so that your body has plenty of Vitamin D and to ensure that you do not give way to sugary and fast foods as these may reduce the efficiency of your immune system.
