The emerging corona virus affects people around the world, including many families in California, as the virus continues to appear in more and more societies. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles works hard to protect our patients, families and hospital staff.
Our experts have asked about facts that can help answer the basic questions that will mind the parents of sick children. Below you will find information about this virus, what is being done to prevent its spread, and how you can protect yourself from the threat of infection.
What is Corona Virus?
Corona viruses are a large group of viruses that can infect both animals and humans, as they cause respiratory illnesses, whether they are mild as colds or as severe as pneumonia. Corona viruses rarely infect humans and then spread among them. You may remember SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) that spread between 2002-2003, which was an example of the Corona virus,
which was transmitted from animals to humans. Another prominent new strain of the Corona virus, MERES (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), appeared in the Middle East in 2012, and scientists say it initially passed from a camel to a human.
I see a test result saying that the person is infected with Corona virus. Should I be concerned?
Not necessary. The vast majority of corona virus diagnostics will be equivalent to informing you that you have a cold or flu. Note that the term “corona virus” covers a wide range of viruses. The appearance of a positive result when performing a corona virus scan is not a cause for concern. This can be very confusing, so please work with your doctor or care team if you find that you have this type of virus.
How does Corona virus spread?
The virus usually spreads to people through coughing, sneezing, or contact with an infected person, or touching an infected surface, then the mouth, nose, or eyes.
How can it help people prevent the spread of the disease?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends good hygiene practices, including frequent washing of hands, drinking plenty of fluids, covering the nose and mouth with a handkerchief or elbows when coughing, and staying at home if you feel sick. Additionally, even when you are not sick, we advise you to stay at home unless you need to go out of necessity and practice social spacing (staying at least six feet away from others).
What are the symptoms of emerging corona virus (COVID-19) disease?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the symptoms of the new coronavirus include “high fever and symptoms that indicate disease of the lower respiratory tract (such as coughing and difficulty breathing).” Avoid mixing with someone who is suspected of contracting the virus.
Can COVID-19 disease be treated?
There is no vaccine for this virus; since it is a virus, antibiotics will not help with it. Without any specific treatment available, health care providers generally treat the symptoms and help the patient feel more comfortable.
Does CHLA Hospital examine patients and visitors?
Our medical staff abides by all recent guidelines issued by the Los Angeles County Public Health Department in all their interactions with patients in an effort to stem the spread of this emerging virus. All hospital personnel and visitors arriving orally are examined for symptoms of the disease. Anyone who does not pass an oral examination will be tested for HIV infection. In addition, all patients at CHLA Hospital are examined to see whether they have HIV when they are admitted to the hospital. This includes testing patients according to the upcoming procedures.
What are the signs that compel people to seek medical care?
If you or your children have a fever, cough, or breathing difficulties, seek medical attention immediately. If you suspect COVID-19 disease, contact your doctor or emergency department before you visit it so that the facility will ensure that no one else is exposed to the virus, if you actually have it.