Cold doesn’t necessarily mean coronavirus
Physicians at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) yesterday said common cold does not necessarily mean a “novel coronavirus” infection, but those with flu symptoms that have visited China recently or come in contact with someone who has -- require special care.
As there is yet to be any confirmed case of novel coronavirus infection in the country, people should not panic, but need to stay aware of it, they said at a scientific seminar on the emergence of the virus, held at a conference room of the university.
Despite “risky character” of transmission of this unknown virus, the mortality rate is lower than the SARS virus infection (mortality rate more than 10 percent) that broke out in 2003, they also said.
By the time the global SARS outbreak was contained, the virus spread to over 8,000 people worldwide and killed almost 800.
This time, China has confirmed more than 4,500 cases of this new virus, with 106 deaths.
Most have been in the central city of Wuhan where the outbreak began in December. More than 50 cases have been confirmed in other places with nearly all of them involving Chinese tourists or people who visited Wuhan recently.
Out of China, the coronavirus infection has been confirmed in 16 countries across Asia, Europe, Australia and Americas so far.
Three experts from BSMMU presented separate presentations on different aspects of coronavirus, in presence of a panel of discussants in the programme.
In her presentation, Dr Munira Jahan, professor of virology at BSMMU, spoke of how the virus spreads and infects humans.
In his presentation, Dr Shamim Ahmed, associate professor of chest disease department, said, “Any mild or severe symptoms [fever, cough, throat pain or like else] could cause death of patients infected with coronavirus. However, common cold does not necessarily mean novel coronavirus infection.”
“We have to stay cautious in case of any common cold which are mainly caused by flu virus. Only China-linked cases needs special attention,” he said adding that such patients must be quarantined.
Most coronavirus infected patients are getting well, they also said. “However, malnourished or elderly people or people with other chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and kidney infection are at high risk if infected with novel coronavirus,” they said.
Readiness in healthcare settings and awareness among healthcare professionals are the most important issues which the government should address properly, they also said.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Physicians also suggested people to wash hand with soap frequently -- especially if they touch raw meat, wear face masks, and to avoid touching one’s mouth unless washed.
They also suggested those who live with pets to be cautious.
Prof Konok Kanti Barua, vice chancellor of BSMMU; Prof Ahmed Abu Saleh, chairman of microbiology and immunology; Prof Saif Ullah Munshi, chairman of virology; doctors and students attended the seminar, among others.
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