All That You Needed To Know About Corona Outbreak In Country

As cases of infection continue to spiral across states, Mail Today answers for you all FAQs on the pandemic

- Ankit Kumar

SYMPTOMS

Q. How will I know if I have Coronavirus?

Common symptoms are cough, fever, and shortness of breath. Some cases identified in the USA and Europe have also complained of diarrhoea. Some other patients, especially young, complained of hearing difficulties.

In India, the final confirmation can only be done through a test conducted by a laboratory designated by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

TRANSMISSION

Q. What are the ways in which one can contract Coronavirus?

The most common way to contract the virus is by coming in close contact with an infected person. This could happen by direct physical contact, transfer of respiratory droplets from a positive patient and touching common objects.

TESTING

Q. Where do I get tested for Coronavirus?

In India, the ICMR has issued guidelines for Coronavirus testing. Not everyone showing symptoms can be tested. The ICMR recommends testing for:

■ Symptomatic patients who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 days

■ Those who have come in close and direct contact of a person already tested positive for Coronavirus

■ Health workers showing COVID-19 symptoms

■ Anyone who has been hospitalised with Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath)

Those who meet the ICMR criteria for testing need to contact health authorities through the helpline numbers and email.

A list of central and state/UT helpline numbers is available here: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/co ronvavirushelplinenumber.pdf

Q. What’s the right time to get a Coronavirus test done?