Q: Which doctor should I consult for coronavirus infections?
A: If you experience a runny nose, sore throat, respiratory difficulties, and fever, it is best to contact your family physician who will then assess the symptoms and refer you to the appropriate medical facility if there is a suspicion of coronavirus infection.
Q: Could dogs be hosts to coronavirus and transmit the infection to humans?
A: So far, dogs or cats have not been found to be hosts of the coronavirus that is transmitted to humans. Hence, humans cannot get infected with coronavirus from dogs.
Q: Is this new strain of coronavirus dangerous?
A: In patients who have chronic respiratory problems like asthma or if they are immunocompromised the pneumonia from the virus can be fatal.
Q: Is there a cure for coronavirus?
A: Simple common cold infections in humans are easily cured. However, outbreaks, such as SARS, MERS, or 2019-nCoV require prompt isolation, diagnosis, targeted treatment for the exhibited symptoms, e.g. ventilation support for those with respiratory distress, or medications to treat fever.
Q: Is a common cold another name for the coronavirus?
A: Some strains of the coronavirus that infect humans only cause a mild cold. However, the common cold is caused by many other different types of viruses.
Q: Can the coronavirus infection be treated with a vaccine?
A: Although vaccine strategies have been developed, there has been no effective vaccine therapy yet against coronavirus infections.
Q: Can coronavirus be detected with a test?
A: Currently, coronaviruses can be identified from the sputum samples that are analyzed in a laboratory setting using RT-PCR, ELISA, and cell culture. High creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, and hepatic enzyme levels are also observed in those infected with coronaviruses.
Q: Can coronaviruses be treated with antibiotics?
A: Antibiotics are drugs that target bacteria. Hence, viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics.
Q: Do coronaviruses affect babies?
A: Yes, coronaviruses may affect babies but it is rare.
