Q: Which specialist doctor to consult for COVID-19?
A: You may consult a primary physician or one who is specialized in respiratory disorders — preferably a pulmonologist for COVID-19.
Q: What is the new Omicron subvariant called?
A: BA.2 has become the world’s dominant Omicron subvariant. It accounts for 86% of all sequenced cases, according to World Health Organization (WHO).
Q: Where did COVID-19 originate?
A: The first case of coronavirus — severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 was isolated in Wuhan, China.
Q: How do viruses get their name?
A: The names of the viruses are generally designated by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), based on their genetic structure. This may aid in the development of diagnostic tests, drugs, and vaccines.
Q: How long does the virus that causes COVID-19 last on surfaces?
A: The virus that causes COVID-19 can remain viable for up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, up to 4 hours on copper, and up to 24 hours on cardboard.
Q: Can coronavirus spread through water while swimming?
A: Water or swimming does not aid in the transmission of COVID-19.
Q: Are smokers more prone to developing COVID-19?
A: Tobacco smoking is a known risk factor for many respiratory diseases. Smokers are more likely to develop severe disease with COVID-19.
