COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Infected people have had a wide range of symptoms reported – from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pink eye
- Bluish lips or face
This is not a complete list, but it includes some of the most common symptoms.
While the Covid-19 virus has devastated much of the world for the past months, there are a few steps that can be applied to residential, commercial and institutional buildings to reduce the chance of infection :
1. Install an HVAC system with either a HEPA filter or filter with a MERV rating of 13 or higher.
2. Allow fresh air to enter the building if possible. This may be difficult during cold weather.
3. Contact a qualified remediation company to come in and sanitize the premises with special disinfectants.
4. Wear facemasks when not eating.
5. Practice social distancing of at least 6 ft.
6. Wash your hands frequently
It is also recommended that if possible, practice a healthy lifestyle. Covid-19 is more likely to cause more serious symptoms in the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, and people who are not physically fit. So a lifestyle that includes healthy eating habits, exercise with a mixture of cardio and resistance training, 7-8 hours of sleep every night, and meditation will give you a better chance of surviving the coronavirus if you should get it, as well as lessen the chance of your getting it.
The following things are not effective in preventing Covid-19 infection:
1. Ultraviolet (UV) lamps
2. Ionizers
3. Ozone generators
4. Plasma cleaners
In addition to making the buildings you live and work in, as well as institutions safe, it is recommended that you do not travel via public transportation (busses, trains, planes), limit social gatherings to immediate family and as few guests as possible, get tested if you suspect you have come in contact with any infected people, and use hand sanitizer when in stores or other public facilities.
