Symptoms of Covid-19

Since this covid-19 strain is new, that's why they call it a novel Corona virus, researchers are constantly learning new things. The most common symptoms of an infection are fever, a dry cough and shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms are very similar to the common cold, the seasonal flu and seasonal allergies, but others, like a runny nose or sneezing, are not. Covid-19 can survive for a while outside your body, floating in the air, sitting on a surface. The latest research shows active virus can live in tiny airborne droplets for up to 3h, up to 24h on things like cardboard, in two to three days, on harder surfaces, like plastic or stainless steel. There are lots of variables to this, things like temperature, humidity, even sunlight, can play a role in how long the virus can survive on the outside. There is no vaccine yet for covid-19. Initial trials have just begun, but it may take a year to 18 months before one is available. In the meantime, one of the best defenses is nothing new. Wash your hands. Scrub them with soap and water, front and back, for 20s. And it doesn't matter how hot the water is. Hand sanitizer with a minimum 60% alcohol is your 2nd best option after washing. And don't forget to cover your coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or cough into your bent elbow, not your hand, and avoid touching your face. The virus gets into your body through your eyes, nose or mouth.