Explained: How long can Covid-19 virus survive on surface?
Awareness is key to combating the deadly second wave of Coronavirus pandemic sweeping through the country. Here are responses to some of your questions with regard to the virus and the precautions against it:
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FollowHow long does the virus survive on surfaces?
Studies have shown that the virus can survive for up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, under four hours on copper and 24 hours on cardboard. The most important aspect is that they can easily be cleaned with common household disinfectants that will kill the virus.
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Is Tocilizumab effective? When should it be recommended?
Tocilizumab can be very useful in helping patients slipping away into a critical stage. It should be used only on those who are on oxygen therapy and who do not suffer from known contra-indications.
Another criterion that needs to be considered is the presence of severe disease (preferably within 24-48 hours of the onset of severe disease or ICU admission). Other criteria include significantly raised inflammatory markers, non-responsiveness to steroids and absence of active bacterial/fungal/tubercular infection.
What do I do if I do not have an Oximeter?
Keep your palm on your chest and measure your respiratory rate for one minute. It is fine if the respiratory rate is less than 24. If the respiratory rate is over 24, it is moderate. If the respiratory rate is over 30, it may be a severe disease.
Does vaccine adversely affect pregnant women?
For pregnant mothers, there is no clear data on the effect of the vaccine on the foetus. For breastfeeding mothers, it is better to wean the baby into other foods and then go in for vaccination. But if chances of infection are high, it is better to vaccinate even if lactating.
When should the second dose ideally be taken?
Ideal, the second dose of vaccine should be taken in 8 to 12 weeks. Even if you delay the second dose by another 3 to 4 weeks, it will not decrease the efficacy of the vaccine.
Do taking antibiotics cure Coronavirus?
Do not take antibiotics on your own unnecessarily. Take antibiotics only if prescribed by a physician after clinical examination and assessment of risks. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to handle secondary infections as a prophylactic, not for treatment for Covid-19.
When should a Covid positive patient take the vaccine?
If you have not yet taken the vaccine shot but are Covid positive, you should delay the vaccination by three to four weeks. If you get Covid positive after the first dose, wait until your results become negative. Delay the second dose by four weeks after the resolution of symptoms.
How does one shop for groceries safely?
When grocery shopping, keep at least one-metre distance from others and avoid touching the eyes, mouth and nose. If possible, sanitize shopping trolleys/basket handles before shopping. Once you reach home, wash your hands thoroughly and also after handling and storing your purchased products.
I use homemade masks. What precautions should I take?
Thoroughly wash the mask after use. Don't re-use a mask without cleaning it. Wash your hands before wearing the mask. Switch to a new mask after a sufficient number of re-uses.
NOTE: Asianet News humbly requests everyone to wear masks, sanitize, maintain social distancing and get vaccinated as soon as eligible. Together we can and will break the chain #ANCares #IndiaFightsCorona
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