The covid-19 Pandemic and Associated Health Risks

Abstract

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus sars-CoV-2, a new coronavirus in the sars-CoV family and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus, had spread worldwide and led the World Health Organization to declare a pandemic. The disease caused by sars-CoV-2, called 2019 coronavirus disease (covid-19) has similar symptoms to those of the influenza. The main symptoms of covid-19 are fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, headache, conjunctivitis, and gastrointestinal problems. Healthcare workers represent an at-risk population, so policies on patient care, use of personal protective equipment, and handling of biohazardous waste in medical units should be reinforced. People who collect garbage and waste are also at risk. It is important to verify the quality of water for human use and consumption; as well as the protocols for hygienic handling of food and basic sanitation. In addition, actions should be taken to protect against health risks; strengthen the culture of biological risk management; carry out health promotion activities, health promotion, and effective risk communication to the population.