BEIJING, Feb 8, 2020 (BSS/XINHUA) – The World Health Organization (WHO) has
published an article on the basic information, transmission mechanism and
protection measures relating to the novel coronavirus in a Q&A format, amid
global efforts to tackle the outbreak. The following is the text of the
article.
Q1: What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses found in both animals and
humans. Some infected people are known to cause illness ranging from the
common cold to more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
(SARS).
Q2: What is a “novel” coronavirus?
A novel coronavirus is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been
previously identified in humans. The “novel” coronavirus, now called 2019-
nCoV, has not previously detected before the outbreak was reported in Wuhan,
China in December.
Q3: How dangerous is the novel coronavirus?
Infection with 2019-nCoV can cause mild symptoms including a runny nose,
sore throat, cough, and fever. It can be more severe for some persons and
lead to pneumonia or breathing difficulties.
More rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people and people with pre-
existing medical conditions appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely
ill with the virus.
Q4: Can 2019-nCoV be transmitted from person to person?
Yes, it can be transmitted from person to person, usually after close
contact with an infected patient.
Q5: What can I do to protect myself?
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand
rub.
Maintain social distancing — maintain at least 1 meter distance between
yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and
have a fever.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early.
Q6: Should I wear a mask?
Wearing a medical mask can help limit the spread of some respiratory
disease. However, it should be combined with other prevention measures
including hand and respiratory hygiene and avoiding close contact.
Q7: Is it safe to receive a package from China or any other place where the
virus has been identified?
Yes. From experience with other coronaviruses, we know that these types of
viruses do not survive long on objects, such as letters or packages.
Q8: Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat 2019-nCoV?
To date, no. Some specific treatments are under investigation and being
tested through clinical trials.
The following measures are not specifically recommended as 2019-nCoV
remedies as they are not effective and can be even harmful: taking vitamin C,
smoking, drinking tradition herbal teas, wearing multiple masks, taking self-
medication such as antibiotics which do not work against viruses.