What are the symptoms of the novel infection?

Feb 07, 2020 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Guo Xiheng

Introduction

The novel infection primarily presents with fever, fatigue, and dry cough. A minority of patients may also experience nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sore throat, and diarrhea. Mild cases may manifest only as low-grade fever and mild fatigue, without evidence of pneumonia. In severe cases, patients may develop dyspnea and even acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), septic shock, acidosis, and coagulopathy.

The novel infection is caused by a newly identified coronavirus—a strain previously unknown in humans. Understanding the symptoms of this novel infection plays a vital role in its prevention. So, what are the symptoms? Below is an overview.

What Are the Symptoms of the Novel Infection?

The primary symptoms of the novel infection include fever, fatigue, and dry cough. A minority of patients may also experience nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sore throat, or diarrhea. Mild cases may present only with low-grade fever and slight fatigue, without evidence of pneumonia. In severe cases, patients may develop dyspnea and even acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), septic shock, metabolic acidosis, or coagulation dysfunction. If any of these symptoms appear, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is essential.

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How to Prevent Infection with the Novel Coronavirus

1. Wash Hands Frequently

Hands come into contact with numerous pathogens—including coronaviruses—making handwashing a well-established preventive measure. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds after coughing or sneezing; before touching the mouth, nose, or eyes; before eating; before and after cooking or handling food ingredients; after using the toilet; and after contact with animals. When soap and running water are unavailable—for example, while outdoors—alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing 70–80% alcohol are a suitable alternative.

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2. Wear Masks Properly When Going Out

It is advisable to avoid crowded places whenever possible and to maintain distance from individuals exhibiting influenza-like symptoms. If visiting such locations is unavoidable, wearing a mask correctly can significantly reduce infection risk. Medical surgical masks provide effective protection against respiratory infections. To wear one properly, fully unfold the pleats, cover the mouth, nose, and chin completely, then press the metal nose clip firmly to ensure a snug fit against the face.

3. Avoid Contact with Wild Animals

Minimize contact with wild animals and refrain from hunting, selling, purchasing, or consuming wildlife.

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4. Maintain Good Personal Hygiene

When coughing or sneezing, avoid covering your mouth and nose directly with your hands. Instead, use a tissue or your flexed elbow to cover them. Used tissues should be disposed of in hazardous waste bins, followed by thorough handwashing.

5. Monitor for Atypical Symptoms

If you develop symptoms such as cough, fatigue, fever, or dyspnea, seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, promptly consult a healthcare provider if you experience chest pain upon deep breathing, tachycardia, sudden clinical deterioration following apparent improvement from cold or flu symptoms, or chills.

The above outlines the key symptoms of the novel pneumonia and offers practical prevention strategies—hopefully helpful to you.

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How to Differentiate Between the Common Cold and Novel Pneumonia

How to Differentiate Between the Common Cold and Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia: 1. **Causative Pathogen**: The common cold is caused by respiratory viral infections, whereas novel coronavirus pneumonia is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. 2. **Onset Timing**: The common cold occurs year-round, whereas novel coronavirus pneumonia emerged as a newly identified illness during the winter of late 2019. 3. **Symptoms**: The common cold typically presents with nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, etc., whereas novel coronavirus pneumonia commonly manifests with dyspnea and other severe respiratory symptoms.

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Does a novel infection always cause fever?

Is persistent fever always present in novel coronavirus infection? Some patients with novel coronavirus infection present with mild initial symptoms and may have no fever at all. In moderate and critical cases, patients may experience only low- to moderate-grade fever—or even no obvious fever—during the course of illness. Therefore, persistent fever is not invariably associated with novel coronavirus infection. Conversely, persistent fever does not necessarily indicate novel coronavirus infection either, as common colds can also cause prolonged fever.