Coronavirus - SARS- CoV-2 - infection prevention - own experience

Abstract

Introduction In December 2019, an epidemic of infections caused by a new beta-coronavirus called SARS CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Virus Corona-2) broke out in the Chinese city of Wuhan. According to modern taxonomy, the species SARS Cov-2 belongs to the order – Nidovirales, family – Coronaviridae, subfamily – Coronavirinae, Genus – Betacoronavirus, lineage – Sarbecovirus. The World Health Organization (WHO) named the disease caused by the SARS CoV-2 COVID-19 virus (Coronavirus disease) on 11 February, 2020. On 11 March, 2020, after the epidemic had spread to all continents, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 pandemic. SARS CoV-2 virus is transmitted by airborne droplets, as well as through contaminated surfaces and objects. The presence of the virus has been shown in the body fluids of infected people, such as nasal and throat secretions, tears, sputum, stool and blood. The incubation period is 5 to 14 days. Non-specific prophylaxis is important in reducing the number of infections caused by SARS CoV-2 virus. Objective The article describes preventive measures undertaken at the Institute of Rural Medicine in Lublin to prevent COVID-19 infections among patients and staff. Summary Scientists emphasize that among the preventive measures, hand washing and disinfection, social distancing, the use of personal protective equipment, and surface decontamination are particularly important, which was confirmed in practice during the SARS epidemic.

Keywords

• coronavirus
• preventive actions
• covid-19