Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large group of viruses that causes respiratory problems ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.  The recent 2019–20 Wuhan coronavirus outbreak is caused by the newest member of this family designated as 2019-nCoV. Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. There are many known CoVs circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. The recent outbreak of 2019-nCoV was first identified in the city of Wuhan of Hubei province, China during December 2019 with about 3000 confirmed cases, yet, and less than 2.8% deaths. Among these confirmed cases, 94% are restricted to the mainland of China. The WHO has released a statement that the deceased were also diagnosed with other conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases that impaired their immune systems.

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing. As of now, NO proven treatments are established, only alleviation of symptoms are being practised.

The basic preventive measures are similar to any viral infections. Eat healthily, stock up on vitamins, have sufficient water in the system, avoid crowded places etc...

Further precautionary measures could be found on the WHO website. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public