Measures to prevent coronavirus infection

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions, such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

A previously unknown coronavirus is a new strain of coronavirus that has not previously been detected in humans.

The clinical picture of coronavirus infection depends on the virus, but common signs include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death.

In order to prevent the spread of cases of diseases caused by the new coronavirus, Russian tourists traveling to China need to take precautions:

• when planning foreign trips, clarify the epidemiological situation (for example: Rospotrebnadzor, WHO websites);
• do not visit markets where animals and seafood are sold;
• avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections;
• use only heat-treated food, bottled water;
• not to visit zoos, cultural events involving animals;
• use respiratory protection equipment (masks);
• wash your hands visiting crowded places and before eating;
• at the first signs of the disease, seek medical help from medical organizations, do not allow self-medication;
• people with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should observe cough etiquette (keep a distance, cover themselves with disposable napkins, handkerchiefs or clothes when coughing and sneezing, wash their hands);
• when seeking medical help in the Russian Federation after returning from a foreign trip, especially after visiting China, it is necessary to inform your attending physician about the time and place of stay, possible contact with an infectious patient during the trip.

Rospotrebnadzor recommends that you plan your trips in advance when visiting China and refrain from traveling to the city of Wuhan until the situation stabilizes.

Timely diagnosis is one of the most important measures in the event of a threat of the emergence and spread of a new coronavirus in Russia.

Scientific organizations of Rospotrebnadzor have developed two variants of diagnostic kits for determining the presence of the virus in the human body in less than 7 days from the moment of the appearance of information about the structure of the genes of the new coronavirus.
The kits are based on a molecular genetic research method, the so-called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Using this method gives test systems significant advantages.
The first is high sensitivity – using the developed test systems it is possible to detect single copies of viruses.
Secondly, there is no need to take blood to diagnose the disease, it is enough to take a sample from the nasopharynx with a cotton swab.
Third, the result of the analysis can be obtained in 2-4 hours.

LOCB specialists strongly recommend - do not neglect preventive measures! Take care of yourself and the health of your family!

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