You may have heard that there is a virus spreading in China that has now entered the United States. To date, two cases of the novel coronavirus, or 2019-nCOV, have been confirmed in this country. The spread of the virus means it is important for family caregivers to older adults to understand what the virus is, the signs of it, and to know how to protect your aging relative from it.

What is the Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a common kind of virus. Some in the group affect only animals and some affect people. Nearly everyone contracts a coronavirus at some point in their life. They typically cause cold-like symptoms. Sometimes, as is the case with the novel coronavirus, they can cause serious respiratory infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

Coronaviruses are usually spread through:

• The air when someone who has the virus coughs or sneezes.
• Contact, like shaking hands or hugging.
• Touching a surface that has the virus on it, then touching the face where the virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Feces, though rarely.

Although children are considered to be the most “at risk” population, anyone can get the coronavirus. Seniors are at greater risk for developing serious complications than are younger people.

What are the Symptoms?

The exact symptoms a person experiences depends on the kind of coronavirus they have contracted. Mild cases have symptoms like:

• Headache.
• Cough.
• Runny nose.
• Fever.
• Sore throat.
• A general feeling of illness.

More serious cases that cause respiratory infection may have symptoms such as:

• Fever, which could be high if the person has pneumonia.
• Coughing with mucus.
• Feeling short of breath.
• Pain or tightness in the chest that occurs during coughing and breathing.

How Can the Coronavirus Be Prevented?

Steps are being taken to prevent the virus from spreading and experts say there is no need for undue worry here in the United States. At this point, the chances of getting the novel coronavirus in this country are slim. However, if you’re concerned about you aging relative contracting a coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends practicing good hygiene habits, like washing their hands and disinfecting surfaces that are frequently touched.

Senior care can help your older family member to prevent catching a coronavirus by reminding them to wash their hands often using soap and water. On outings, a senior care provider can make certain the senior has hand sanitizer with them and uses it. Senior care providers can also wipe down shopping cart handles with disinfectant wipes when taking the older adult shopping. At home, a senior care provider can help to keep counters, faucets, and doorknobs disinfected.

Sources
https://www.aarp.org/travel/travel-tips/safety/info-2020/coronavirus-precautions.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R2-POS4-REALPOSS-TODAY
https://medlineplus.gov/coronavirusinfections.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/guidance-prevent-spread.html

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Senior Care in Gulfport, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.