:: COVID-19 & OMICRON PANDEMIC ::
(Medically Reviewed by Dr. Salma Anjum & Dr. Seher Anjum, Last Updateted: 01-01-2022 ::

:: PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE ::
:: HELPING OTHERS AND SAVING LIVES IS INNER PEACE ::
:: VACCINATE ALL YOUNG AND OLD ASP ::

1-Test Max - Trace And Isolate (Test With Real And Certified Test Kits).
2-Care And Try To Cure With PPE - Vaccinate All Young And Old.
3- Stay At Home If U Can Work From Home Save Yourself And Save Others.
4- Wash Your Hands, Use Face Mask Properly Stay At Least 2 Meters Away From Others.

:: Note ::
Any One Can Get COVID-19 And Omicron Any One Can Spread CVID-19 And Omicron
:: People who had apparently recovered from COVID-19 and Omicron can be affected COVID-19 And Omicron again ::

COVID-19 SUCK OXYGEN AND BLOOD THINER FROM BLOOD AND MAKE BLOOD THICK EVEN CONVERT BLOOD IN CLOTS BLOCK BLOOD TO RUN IN THE VAINS AND OXYGEN TO LUNGS AND OTHER PARTS OF BODY INCLUDING BRAIN AND MAKE LUNGS VERY DRY AND SOMETIME MULTIPLE ORGAN FAILURE INCLUDING LUNGS : THAT IS THE RESULT OF STUDY AND RESEARCH SO FAR

The latest info on the Indian, UK, South African and Brazilian variants of coronavirus, including if they’re more deadly, and how they respond to vaccines.

What are the new strains of coronavirus?

All viruses, including coronaviruses, can change over time. This can lead to different strains of the virus with different characteristics. While there are many different tiny changes in the genetic sequence of the virus, there are four main strains (also called variants) which are currently circulating more quickly. The strains first detected in the UK (also known as the Kent strain), South Africa, Brazil and India are each identified through a specific combination of mutations. Even though these variants arose in different places, they share some of the same mutations.

It’s common for viruses to change over time – so it’s not surprising that coronavirus has mutated. When a virus such as Covid-19 enters the body, it begins to multiply quickly. Each time it multiplies, there is a chance that the virus may slightly change. This process is called mutation. More new strains are likely to arise and it’s also possible for new strains to mix to create even more new variants.

What is the Delta (Indian) variant of coronavirus?

Delta, also known as B.1.617.2, is a sub-lineage of the B.1.617 variant. This variant first appeared in India in October 2020 and is now believed to be contributing to a sharp increase in coronavirus cases in India.

What is the situation in the UK?

Public Health England (PHE) flagged Delta as a ‘variant of concern’. Delta is now the dominant strain in the UK - as of now it accounts for approximately 95% of Covid-19 cases.

New research from PHE also suggests the Delta variant is around 60% more likely to be spread to other people in the same household than the Alpha (Kent) variant and may be linked with a higher risk of hospitalisation.

Enhanced contact tracing measures are in place as Public Health England continues to detect cases and investigate this lineage.

Is the Delta variant more deadly?

PHE announced that early evidence suggests the Delta sub-lineage may have an increased risk of hospitalisation compared to the Alpha (Kent) variant, but said that more data is needed for them to be confident in this finding.

The B.1.617 variant has several important mutations which may make it easier to pass on, or make it resistant to the immune response to the virus, including:

The L452R mutation, which may help the virus escape the immune response, including antibodies (which attach to the virus to help neutralise it) and immune cells (which help to directly attack the virus and infected cells). There is also some evidence it can affect how well the virus binds to ACE2 receptors on the surface of our cells. As this is a vital step in the virus getting into our cells, this mutation could potentially make it more infectious.

The P681R mutation – which is also present in other variants, including the Kent strain. It’s thought that this mutation may make it easier for the virus to spread.

The B.1.617.1 and B.1.617.3 sub-lineages also carry the E484Q mutation, which is similar to the E484K mutation first identified in the Beta (South African) variant. There is evidence that this mutation may help the virus escape the immune response. This does not mean vaccines won’t offer any protection against this variant, it may just be reduced.

Is the Pfizer vaccine effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus?

Yes, the Pfizer vaccine seems very effective against the Delta variant. A study published by Public Health England (PHE) showed that, two weeks after the second dose, the Pfizer vaccine offered 88% protection in preventing Covid-19 illness caused by the Delta variant.

The same study showed that, three weeks after a single dose, the effectiveness of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is just 33% against the Delta variant – so it’s really important to have your second dose when you are offered it.

The Pfizer vaccine is even more effective when it comes to preventing severe illness caused by the Delta variant. Another study published by PHE looked at emergency hospital admissions in England, and showed that the Pfizer vaccine was 96% effective at preventing hospitalisation from the Delta variant after two doses, and 94% effective after one dose.

Is the Oxford/AstaZeneca vaccine effective against the Delta variant of coronavirus?

Yes, the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is effective against the Delta variant, as long as you have both doses. A study published by Public Health England(PHE)showed that, two weeks after the second dose, the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine offered 60% protection in preventing Covid-19 illness caused by the Delta variant.

The same research, conducted showed the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is 33% effective against the variant three weeks after the first dose. So it’s really important to get the second dose when you get offered it.

The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is even more effective when it comes to preventing severe illness caused by the Delta variant, especially after two doses. PHE published a study showing that the Oxford/ AstraZeneca vaccine was highly effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalisation from the Delta variant of Covid-19. The study looked at emergency hospital admissions in England. It showed that the Oxford/ AstraZeneca vaccine was 92% effective at preventing hospitalisation with the Delta variant after two doses, and 71% effective after one dose.

What is the Alpha (UK) variant of coronavirus?

Alpha, also known as B.1.1.7, is the variant first discovered in Kent in September 2020. This variant was linked to a sharp increase in cases in the UK in early 2021, where it became a dominant strain.

Is the Alpha (UK) variant more deadly?

Yes, recent studies suggest the UK variant of coronavirus is linked to a higher chance of hospitalisation and death than the original strain.

A recent study by the University of Exeter and Bristol assessed samples from 54,906 people who had tested positive for the Alpha variant, against people who had tested positive for other strains. 

The study showed that the Alpha strain led to 227 deaths among 54,906 patients, compared to 141 deaths in the group of  the same size with other coronavirus strains. That means the Alpha strain could be 64 per cent more deadly. 

The study was based on people who tested positive for Covid-19 outside of hospital, so isn’t representative of everyone who catches the virus. In particular, people who are diagnosed with Covid in hospital tend to be those who are most unwell and more likely to die, so we don’t know what the difference between strains would be for that group of people. 

Even though there is evidence that the Alpha strain is more deadly, it’s important to remember that the overall risk of death from Covid-19 is still low.

Is the Pfizer vaccine effective against the Alpha strain?

Data released by Public Health England (PHE) on 22 May showed that, two weeks after the second dose, the Pfizer vaccine was 93% effective in preventing symptomatic cases of the virus caused by the Alpha variant. The same research showed the Pfizer vaccine was 50% effective against the variant three weeks after the first dose. So it’s really important to get the second dose when you are offered it.

Is the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine effective against the Alpha strain?

Research suggests that the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is effective against the Alpha variant, especially after two doses.

A study published by Public Health England (PHE) showed ,two weeks after the second dose, the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine was 66% effective at preventing symptomatic cases of Covid caused by Alpha variant - well above the 50% minimum level of protection that is recommended by the World Health Organization. The same researchshowed the vaccine was 50% effective against the variant three weeks after the first dose. So it’s really important to get the second dose when you are offered it. 

Is the Moderna vaccine effective against the Alpha strain?

Early results from lab studies show that antibodies made in response to the Moderna vaccine are still effective against mutations found in the Alpha variant.

What is the Beta (South African) variant of coronavirus - and is it in the UK?

Beta, a new variant first detected in South Africa, is now present in the UK. This variant, also known as B.1.351, shares some of the same mutations as the strains first detected in the UK (Kent) and Brazil.

There are currently only a small number of cases of the Beta variant in the UK, and the government has put measures in place to minimise community spread of this variant.

Is the new Beta variant more deadly?

The strain first detected in South Africa is not believed to be more deadly than the initial strain, but it is known to spread more quickly than the initial strain. 

Is the Pfizer vaccine effective against the Beta strain of Covid?

Results from lab studies suggest that antibodies made in response to the Pfizer vaccine are less effective against the variant first detected in South Africa variant - but this doesn’t mean the vaccine won’t offer some protection.

Recent analysis of real people who were given the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine during phase 3 trials showed more promising results. Pfizer/BioNTech published data looking specifically at 800 people in the trial who were living in South Africa. Their analysis suggests the vaccine is 100% effective at preventing symptomatic Covid-19 caused by the Beta variant. No cases were seen in people who received the vaccine, compared to 8 in the control group. However, ongoing research is needed in this area, particularly given the relatively small numbers of people and Covid-19 cases in this analysis.

Pfizer/BioNTech also recently announced that they are developing a booster vaccine, which is more specific to the South African variant.

Is the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine effective against the Beta strain?

A small study of 2,000 people in South Africa has shown that the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine offers minimal protection against mild cases of the Beta variant, but the vaccine is still likely to reduce severe cases and deaths from the strain.

The study, which was based people of an average age of 31, shows that protection may be as low as 10%. The research wasn’t able to determine whether it protects against serious illness or hospitalisation, because this group of people were at low risk of serious illness. Other research suggests that the vaccine is still likely to reduce severe cases and deaths from the B.1.351 strain. More research is needed in this area.

Oxford University is working on adapting the vaccine to ensure that it protects against this variant, as well as other strains. They have said a ‘booster’ jab could be available soon. 

Is the Moderna vaccine effective against the Beta strain?

Early results from lab studies show that antibodies made in response to the Moderna vaccine are still active, though slightly less effective against mutations in the Beta variant. The effectiveness of the Moderna vaccine against the Beta strain still needs to be tested on real people who have had the vaccine.

Moderna has developed a booster vaccine to target the Beta strain, which is now in phase 1 clinical trials in the US.

What is the new Gamma (Brazilian) variant of coronavirus – and is it in the UK?

Gamma, a strain of coronavirus first identified in travellers from Brazil, is present in the UK. The Gamma variant, also known as P.1, is not yet thought to be widespread in the UK.

Is the new Gamma variant more deadly?

The Gamma strain is not believed to be more deadly, but it does spread more easily than the original Covid-19 strain.

Is the Pfizer vaccine effective against the Gamma variant of coronavirus?

Early results from lab studies have shown that antibodies made in response to the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine are still active, though slightly less effective against mutations found in the Gamma variant.

It’s important to remember that immunity is not an all or nothing response – even if the antibodies produced in response to a vaccine are slightly less effective at binding to a variant of the virus, this does not mean that it will not give protection against disease.

Another early laboratory study looking at immune cells in the blood of people who had had the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine found that mutations present in coronavirus variants, including the Gamma variant, didn’t seem to affect whether these cells were able to react to the virus.

More research is needed to understand how effective the vaccine is against the Gamma variant, including large studies in real people who have had the vaccine.

Is the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine effective against the Gamma variant of coronavirus?

Early results from lab studies show antibodies made in response to the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine are still active, though slightly less effective against mutations in the Gamma variant. Researchers are continuing to examine whether there is any impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine when used in real people.

The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine contains the genetic instructions for the whole coronavirus spike protein – different immune cells will react to different parts of the spike, producing antibodies which target different areas. This reduces the chances that any individual mutation present in new coronavirus strains will make the vaccine less effective. But researchers are continuing to examine how effective the vaccine is against the Gamma variant.

Is the Moderna vaccine effective against the Gamma strain?

Early results from lab studies show that the Moderna vaccine produces active antibodies against mutations in the Gamma variant, although the antibodies are slightly less effective against this variant. Immunity is not an all or nothing response – even if the antibodies produced in response to a vaccine are slightly less effective at binding to a variant of the virus, this does not mean that it will not give protection against disease. 

Another early laboratory study looking at immune cells in the blood of people who had had the Moderna vaccine found that mutations present in coronavirus variants, including the Gamma variant, didn’t seem to affect whether these cells were able to react to the virus.

More research is needed to understand how effective the vaccine is against the Gamma variant, including studies in real people who have had the vaccine.

Now, there’s a Delta Plus variant, and governments are understandably concerned.

COULD DELTA PLUS CAUSE A THIRD WAVE IN INDIA?

The Delta Plus variant – also known as B.1.617.2.1 or AY.1 – contains a new mutation in the spike protein the virus uses to enter human cells, called K417N. As it’s still closely linked to Delta, it’s been called Delta Plus rather than another letter in the Greek alphabet, according to WHO’s naming system for COVID-19 variants. So far, Delta Plus has been found in relatively low numbers.

India has already been ravaged by the Delta variant, and COVID-19 cases reached a horrifying peak of 400,000 daily cases in May. Last week, India’s Ministry of Health released a statement on Delta Plus citing three characteristics for concern.

These are: increased transmissibility, stronger binding to receptors of lung cells (suggesting easier entry into human cells), and a potential reduction in response to monoclonal antibodies (which could imply that people's immune systems may be less effective against this variant, or that they may be less responsive to lifesaving monoclonal antibody treatments).

The Delta Plus variant was found during routine screening of viral RNA sequences uploaded to GISAID, a data sharing platform set up originally to share flu viral sequences - indicating how critical ongoing surveillance is.

Several scientists have warned that this is not the time for India – or any other country for that matter – to let down its guard.

THE UNVACCINATED ARE MOST VULNERABLE

Although the Delta variant has spread far and wide (and if the Delta Plus variant is as contagious, it could easily do so as well), there are main factors distinguishing the ability of countries to deal with it.

The first is what proportion of a country is vaccinated. Fully-vaccinated people are well protected, say researchers, but those who have only had one dose are vulnerable, and estimates of how well vaccines work against the Delta variant vary.

According to the UK’s Public Health England, the the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 96% effective against hospitalisation after 2 doses and the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is 92% effective against hospitalisation after 2 doses.

The protection offered by a single dose appears low, and of course if you are not at all vaccinated, consider yourself at high risk.

Many countries in low- and middle-income countries are also already dealing with hunger, malnutrition, conflict, displacement and other crises related directly and indirectly to COVID-19. Another sign, if one was needed, that vaccine distribution needs to speed up, and fast.

 New Corona-19 Variants are showing some resistance to anti bodies and already made vaccines are still effective but less for new variants of covid-19 of many countries like uk sauth africa brazil usa and many other countries, new variants spread very quick fast and thay are very leathal kill more people and quick.

:: ARCHIVE : New Brazilian coronavirus variant ::

Here's what we know about the coronavirus variant in Brazil:

1. The latest mutation of the virus was first detected in four people arriving in Japan's Tokyo from Amazonas in Brazil.

National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) has said that the new variant comes from the B.1.1.248 lineage of the deadly virus and has 12 mutations, including N501Y and E484K, in its spike proteins. Spike proteins in a virus act as the main enablers to enter the host cell.

3.NIID also said that the N501Y mutation is the same that was found in the UK strain of coronavirus called VOC-202012/01 implicated to increase transmissibility.

4. The E484K mutation, also found in the South African variant, is said "to be an escape mutation from a monoclonal antibody which neutralize SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)". Research shows that this means it may be able to escape the antibodies provided by the vaccine.

5. This particular mutation has been called "the most worrying of all" by Ravi Gupta, a professor of clinical microbiology at the University of Cambridge, according to The Independent

6.The institute also said that a variant isolate with E484K belonging to B.1.1.248 was found in Brazil on January 6, but this variant is not similar to one identified in Japan.

7. A leading British virologist has said there are two different types of Brazilian variant and the one detected in Britain is not the cause of concern. "There are two different types of Brazilian variants and one of them has been detected (in the UK) and one of them has not," Wendy Barclay, the head of the department of infectious disease and chairperson in influenza virology at Imperial College London, was quoted as saying by Reuters.

8. She also added, like the UK and South African variant, the new Brazilian variant is a cause 'of concern' and would be 'traced very carefully', as reported by Reuters.

9. While there is no clear evidence of a vaccine being effective against the newfound variant, Pfizer and BioNTech have said that their shots work against N501Y mutation in the UK strain, as reported by The Independent.

:: Most patients hospitalized for Covid-19 still have symptoms six months later. remember any one can have covid-19 again so follow the SOPs ::

Three-quarters of Covid-19 patients still have at least one symptom six months after first falling ill, researchers who followed hospital patients in China reported.

The new findings suggest symptoms linger longer and in a higher proportion of patients than previously thought.

The largest and longest analysis to date of post-Covid recovery also warns that some patients’ antibody levels fell sharply, raising concern that while waiting for a return to full health, they could be reinfected with the coronavirus. 

Almost two-thirds of the patients said they were still suffering from fatigue and muscle weakness, the researchers wrote in The Lancet. 

A little over a quarter had difficulty sleeping, and a little under a quarter experienced anxiety and depression. 

Overall, more women than men reported lingering symptoms, and people whose disease was more severe had poorer lung health.

The larger number of patients studied in China, where the pandemic first unfolded, and the higher proportion of people experiencing difficulties for a longer time paint a picture of problems that aren’t going away.

At six months after symptoms onset, a considerable proportion of Covid-19 patients had physical and psychological problems,” study co-author Lixue Huang of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital and Capital Medical University told STAT. “We still do not know how long it takes for these patients to recover fully from Covid-19 or whether complete recovery is possible in every case. Within that 76% there are people who are long haulers, people who have long-term cardiac damage because of Covid infection, people who have long-term lung damage and kidney damage, and so on.

Shortness of breath or loss of smell six months later are troubling'. A new variant of the coronavirus believed to spread more easily has forced the United Kingdom into another lockdown and been detected in at least 33 countries, including the United States. Many of the U.S. cases have no known travel history meaning the strain is spreading throughout communities. The variant, known as B.1.1.7, is not expected to be resistant to the vaccines

How is this COVID strain different?

The variation found in the U.K., also known as “VUI – 202012/01” was first identified there in mid-September, according to the World Health Organization. Its mutations have occurred on the genetic material that controls the spike protein, which allows COVID and other similar viruses to penetrate host cells, causing infection.

According to the U.K.’s chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, there are  23 changes in the virus’s genetic material, an unusually large number that appears to be helping it spread more quickly. British officials have now estimated that the strain is as much as 70 percent more transmissible — a number that is based on modeling, but not yet confirmed in lab experiments.

A later study published on December 23-2020, suggested a smaller, but still dangerous number: that the British mutation is 56 percent more contagious. Still, other scientists have expressed skepticism that the mutation necessarily means it is more transmissible, pointing to other potential explanations such as mask-wearing and social distancing.

Though there is no evidence to-date that the strain causes a more intense illness or leads to a higher fatality rate, faster transmission does mean more cases, which can lead to a higher hospitalization rate. In the Atlantic, sociologist Zeynep Tufecki cites the work of Adam Kucharski, a professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, to explain why an increase in transmissibility is such an alarming development.

Kucharski compares a 50 percent increase in virus lethality to a 50 percent increase in virus transmissibility. Take a virus reproduction rate of about 1.1 and an infection fatality risk of 0.8 percent and imagine 10,000 active infections a plausible scenario for many European cities, as Kucharski notes. As things stand, with those numbers, we’d expect 129 deaths in a month. If the fatality rate increased by 50 percent, that would lead to 193 deaths. In contrast, a 50 percent increase in transmissibility would lead to a whopping 978 deaths in just one month assuming, in both scenarios, a six-day infection-generation time.

--::--

:: What Is a Coronavirus (COVID-19) :: Coronaviruses were first identified in the 1960s, but we don't know where they come from. They get their name from their crown-like shape. Sometimes, but not often, a coronavirus can infect both animals and humans.

Most coronaviruses spread the same way other cold-causing viruses do: through infected people coughing and sneezing, by touching an infected person's hands or face, or by touching things such as doorknobs that infected people have touched.

Almost everyone gets a coronavirus infection at least once in their life, most likely as a young child. In the United States, coronaviruses are more common in the fall and winter, but anyone can come down with a coronavirus infection at any time.

:: Common Symptoms of Coronavirus ::
The symptoms of most coronaviruses are similar to any other upper respiratory infection, including runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and sometimes a fever. In most cases, you won't know whether you have a coronavirus or a different cold-causing virus, such as rhinovirus.

You could get lab tests, including nose and throat cultures and blood work, to find out whether your cold was caused by a coronavirus, but there's no reason to. The test results wouldn't change how you treat your symptoms, which typically go away in a few days.

But if a coronavirus infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract (your windpipe and your lungs), it can cause pneumonia, especially in older people, people with heart disease, or people with weakened immune systems.

For confirmed 2019-nCoV infections, reported illnesses have ranged from people being mildly sick to people being severely ill and dying. CDC believes at this time that symptoms of 2019-nCoV may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 after exposure. This is based on what has been seen previously as the incubation period of MERS viruses.

:: Common human coronaviruses ::
Common human coronaviruses, including types 229E, NL63, OC43, and HKU1, usually cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses, like the common cold. Most people get infected with these viruses at some point in their lives. These illnesses usually only last for a short amount of time.

:: Symptoms may include ::
* Sudden Death By Heart Attack Or Stroke Caused By Blood Clots
* Runny nose
* Headach
* Cough
* Sore throat
* Fever * Pneumonia
* A general feeling of being unwell
* Chills, Malaise and muscle pain
* Sweating * Chest tightness
* Diarrhea

But there are additional signals of the virus, some that are very much like cold or flu, and some that are more unusual. Any or all symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure to the virus..

* Sudden confusion
* Digestive issues
* Pink eyes
* Fatigue
* A number of research studies tend to confirm that the eyes are now also part of the growing list of body parts that maybe affected are being affected by the COVID-19 disease.

Medical experts are currently investigating whether people infected with COVID-19 show a particular sign of the disease on their feet.
The Spanish General Council of Official Podiatrist Colleges shared a statement detailing their observation.

The statement said many COVID-19 patients have "purple-coloured lesions" on their feet. It continued that the marks are "similar to chickenpox or measles". Usually appearing around the toes, the marks are said to "heal by themselves". Additionally, there can be a cluster of purple lesions or an isolated case of just one.

:: MOST DANGEROUS ::
Some people become infected but don't develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell but thay are transmitter of this leathal and deadly virus named COVID-19.

:: NEW ::
Thursday 11 June 2020 21:21, Sky News

(Remember PPL I Made You Aware Of It In March 2020 But At That Time It Was 40-50 % But I Was Wrong It Is More Tn I Thaugt)

Coronavirus: Up to 80% diagnosed with COVID-19 have no symptoms, health secretary says.

This is a "significant finding" and makes controlling the virus "difficult". He said up to 80% of people who test positive for coronavirus in the UK don't have symptoms.

According to data released by the Office For National (ONS) statistics last week, 71% of people who tested positive for coronavirus had not displayed symptoms.

But speaking at the daily government briefing, Mr Hancock suggested the number of asymptomatic cases could be higher.

The health secretary said: "The big-picture answer is that yes there are some people who don't have symptoms but do have the virus.
"And in fact, in the ONS study we find that around 70-80% of people who test positive don't have symptoms.

I told you 100 times since march 2020 that "social distancing” is sending the wrong message and contributing to social isolation. “Rather than sounding like you have to socially separate from your family and friends.. 'physical distancing' simplifies the concept with the emphasis on keeping 6-7 feet away from others

:: WE INFORMED YOU THAT LAST WEEK OF FEB 2020 REMEMBER !!! ::
Lost Sense of Smell May Be Peculiar Clue to Coronavirus Infection Too. (Doctor groups are recommending testing and isolation for people who lose their ability to smell and taste, even if they have no other symptoms)

* Smokers are more likely to contract virus, academic researchers warned
* Evidence shown those with inflamed lungs risk catching respiratory diseases
* Smokers up to 300 per cent more at risk of contracting respiratory illnesses
* They could also be vulnerable because they touch their face when lighting up.

CORONAVIRUS symptoms have proven to be far more extensive and complicated than initially thought. Almost daily, new and unusual symptoms of the deadly virus pop up and if you experience any of the following five warning signs on your skin it could mean you are at risk.

:: Alarming ::
* Very Senitive Skin Against Bit Hot Water And Ice
* Blair vision
* Low blood pressure
* Low body temperature
Human coronaviruses can sometimes cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. This is more common in people with cardiopulmonary disease, people with weakened immune systems, infants, and older adults.

:: Other human coronaviruse :: Two other human coronaviruses, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV have been known to frequently cause severe symptoms. MERS symptoms usually include fever, cough, and shortness of breath which often progress to pneumonia. About 3 or 4 out of every 10 patients reported with MERS have died. MERS cases continue to occur, primarily in the Arabian Peninsula. SARS symptoms often included fever, chills, and body aches which usually progressed to pneumonia. No human cases of SARS have been reported anywhere in the world since 2004.

:: Diagnosis ::
Your healthcare provider may order laboratory tests on respiratory specimens and serum (part of your blood) to detect human coronaviruses. Laboratory testing is more likely to be used if you have severe disease or are suspected of having MERS.

If you are experiencing symptoms, you should tell your healthcare provider about any recent travel or contact with animals. Most MERS-CoV infections have been reported from countries in the Arabian Peninsula.
Therefore reporting a travel history or contact with camels or camel products is very important when trying to diagnose MERS. How is the coronavirus spread?

* The Wuhan coronavirus outbreak is a new illness and scientists are still assessing how it spreads from person to person, but similar viruses tend to spread via cough and sneeze droplets.

* When an infected person coughs or sneezes, they release droplets of saliva or mucus. These droplets can fall on people in the vicinity and can be either directly inhaled or picked up on the hands then transferred when someone touches their face, causing infection. For flu, some hospital guidelines define exposure as being within six feet of an infected person who sneezes or coughs for 10 minutes or longer.

Viruses can also be spread through droplets landing on surfaces such as seats on buses or trains or desks in school. However, whether this is a main transmission route depends on how long viruses survive on surfaces – this can vary from hours to months.

There is anecdotal evidence that the virus can be spread by people before they have symptoms. Some other illnesses such as flu can be passed from one person to another before symptoms occur – but the extent to which this is happening with the Wuhan coronavirus is not well understood yet.

:: Zoonotic transmission ::
Both SARS and MERS are classified as zoonotic viral diseases, meaning the first patients who were infected acquired these viruses directly from animals. This was possible because while in the animal host, the virus had acquired a series of genetic mutations that allowed it to infect and multiply inside humans.

Now these viruses can be transmitted from person to person. Field studies have revealed that the original source of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV is the bat, and that the masked palm civets (a mammal native to Asia and Africa) and camels, respectively, served as intermediate hosts between bats and humans. In the case of this 2019 coronavirus outbreak, reports state that most of the first group of patients hospitalized were workers or customers at a local seafood wholesale market which also sold processed meats and live consumable animals including poultry, donkeys, sheep, pigs, camels, foxes, badgers, bamboo rats, hedgehogs and reptiles.
Since no one has ever reported finding a coronavirus infecting aquatic animals, it is plausible that the coronavirus may have originated from other animals sold in that market.

The hypothesis that the 2019-nCoV jumped from an animal at the market is strongly supported by a new publication in the Journal of Medical Virology. The scientists conducted an analysis and compared the genetic sequences of 2019-nCoV and all other known coronaviruses.

The study of the genetic code of 2019-nCoV reveals that the new virus is most closely related to two bat SARS-like coronavirus samples from China, initially suggesting that, like SARS and MERS, the bat might also be the origin of 2019-nCoV.

The authors further found that the viral RNA coding sequence of 2019-nCoV spike protein, which forms the “crown” of the virus particle that recognizes the receptor on a host cell, indicates that the bat virus might have mutated before infecting people.

But when the researchers performed a more detailed bioinformatics analysis of the sequence of 2019-nCoV, it suggests that this coronavirus might come from snakes.

:: From bats to snakes ::
The researchers used an analysis of the protein codes favoured by the new coronavirus and compared it to the protein codes from coronaviruses found in different animal hosts, like birds, snakes, marmots, hedgehogs, manis, bats and humans. Surprisingly, they found that the protein codes in the 2019-nCoV are most similar to those used in snakes.

Snakes often hunt for bats in wild. Reports indicate that snakes were sold in the local seafood market in Wuhan, raising the possibility that the 2019-nCoV might have jumped from the host species bats to snakes and then to humans at the beginning of this coronavirus outbreak.

However, how the virus could adapt to both the cold-blooded and warm-blooded hosts remains a mystery.

The authors of the report and other researchers must verify the origin of the virus through laboratory experiments. Searching for the 2019-nCoV sequence in snakes would be the first thing to do.

However, since the outbreak, the seafood market has been disinfected and shut down, which makes it challenging to trace the new virus’ source animal.

Sampling viral RNA from animals sold at the market and from wild snakes and bats is needed to confirm the origin of the virus. Nonetheless, the reported findings will also provide insights for developing prevention and treatment protocols.

The 2019-nCoV outbreak is another reminder that people should limit the consumption of wild animals to prevent zoonotic infections. The Coronavirus Questions That Scientists Are Racing to Answer:

Here are some of the outstanding questions that doctors, scientists, and health agencies are rushing to answer. (And a reminder that, already, they’ve learned quite a lot.)

:: WHEN ARE PEOPLE CONTAGIOUS ::
One of the luckiest breaks the world got with the SARS outbreak of 2002-2003 was that people weren’t contagious until they developed symptoms. The same is true of MERS. As a result, it became easier for health officials to try to limit spread once they identified a new case.

Public health experts watching this outbreak unfold have been hoping 2019-nCoV, which is a member of the same virus family, would follow that pattern. Now they’re not so sure. Chinese health authorities said over the weekend they’ve recorded cases where transmission occurred before the transmitting person showed symptoms. If that’s a common feature of this infection, it’s going to cause serious problems.

With some viral illnesses like influenza for example people can actually start infecting the people around them a day or two before they start to feel sick.

That’s insidious, because it means infected people can go to work, take the subway, go to church or to the movies unaware that they are emitting viruses that can infect others.

:: HOW LONG IS THE PERIOD BETWEEN WHEN A PERSON GETS INFECTED AND WHEN THEY DEVELOP SYMPTOMS ::

In the past few days several papers from China describing the illness have been published or posted on preprint websites (sites that share papers before they have been peer-reviewed or published in journals). In a paper posted to bioRxiv, scientists from Guangdong province estimated the incubation period the time from infection to symptoms to average between four and five days, which was also the case with SARS. There is clearly a range, though; on Monday, the WHO said the information to date suggests two to 10 days.
Estimated the incubation period in a cluster of six family members to be 14 days. These estimates are compatible and suggest it takes a few days for people to start feeling ill which explains how a number of travelers who have brought the virus to other countries only realized they were sick a day or two after getting home.

:: ARE THERE MILD CASES THAT AREN’T BEING DETECTED? HOW BIG A PROPORTION OF THE OVERALL CASES ARE THEY ::

Most diseases have a spectrum of illness, ranging sometimes from asymptomatic infection symptom free to very severe disease and death. But some diseases tend to tilt toward one end of the spectrum.

With SARS, most of the cases were seriously ill. While that was bad for anyone infected, it made detecting where the virus was spreading easier. In this outbreak, it’s starting to look like there are mild and even asymptomatic cases. How often they occur still isn’t clear. Nor is it known yet if they are able to transmit the virus, or how often they do. With some illnesses, mild and asymptomatic cases don’t contribute much to spread.

:: HOW DANGEROUS IS THIS INFECTION ::

The reports emerging suggest a pretty significant portion of cases are seriously ill. For instance, in a report China’s national health authorities posted Monday, about 17% of total cases were severely ill. And about 3% of confirmed cases had died.

Those are frightening numbers. But if the confirmed cases represent only a fraction of the total cases and they likely do that could really change the math. Until we have a better handle on the total number of cases it’s premature to draw conclusions.

:: How to protect yourself and others ::
:: Do ::
* wash your hands with soap and water often do this for at least 20 seconds
* always wash your hands when you get home or into work
* use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
* cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
* put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
* avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus
* only travel on public transport if you need to * work from home, if you can
* avoid social activities, such as going to pubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas
* avoid events with large groups of people
* use phone, online services, or apps to contact your GP surgery or other NHS services.

:: Don't ::
* do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
* do not have visitors to your home, including friends and family
Wet your hands with clean, running water and apply :: Anti-Bacterial Hand Wash Or Soap :: Lather your hands, including the backs, between your fingers, and under your nails and scrub for at least 20-30 seconds. (Don't 4Get Thumbs)

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the bin and wash your hands. If you do not have a tissue to hand, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands.

Face masks offer some protection as they block liquid droplets. However, they do not block smaller aerosol particles that can pass through the material of the mask.
The masks also leave the eyes exposed and there is evidence that some viruses can infect a person through the eyes.

Seek early medical help if you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, and share your travel history with healthcare providers.
If visiting live markets in affected areas avoid direct, unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces that have been in contact with animals.

If you are in an affected area avoid eating raw or undercooked animal products and exercise care when handling raw meat, milk or animal organs to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods.

If you have returned from an affected area in China in the last two weeks, stay indoors and avoid contact with other people for 14 days. This means not going to work, school or public areas.

If you have returned from an infected area and develop a high temperature, cough, runny nose, sore throat or difficulty breathing do not leave your home until you have been given advice by a doctor.

Carry tissues at all times and use them to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze. Bin the tissue (preferably in a bin with a lid) and wash your hands or use hand sanitiser. If a tissue isn't available, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands.

Wearing surgical face masks will make little difference outside hospital environments as they must be worn and removed correctly, changed frequently and disposed of safely to be effective.

There isn't yet a vaccine but various teams of scientists around the world are in the process of developing a vaccine to COVID-19.
There also isn't a specific treatment yet available, although many people will recover from mild infections following rest and fluids. Those who go on to develop pneumonia will have their symptoms managed and treated.

:: How long can the new coronavirus last on surfaces and in air ::

A study suggests the virus can live on surfaces for up to 4 To 5 Days or even up to 92 Hours and in air up to 3 hours it depends more or less. (In rare cases it can last even 4 months)

As the coronavirus outbreak continues to accelerate in the cleaning supplies are disappearing off the shelves and people are worried about every subway rail, deli counter and toilet seat they touch.

But how long can the new coronavirus linger on surfaces, anyway!!

The short answer is, we don't know. But a new analysis found that the virus can remain viable in the air for up to 3 hours, on copper for up to 4 hours, on cardboard up to 24 hours and on plastic and stainless steel up to 2 to 3 days up to 92 hours. However, this study, which was published ihas not yet yet been peer-reviewed.
Another study published in The Journal of Hospital Infection analyzed several dozen previously published papers on human coronaviruses (other than the new coronavirus) to get a better idea of how long they can survive outside of the body.

They concluded that if this new coronavirus resembles other human coronaviruses, such as its "cousins" that cause SARS and MERS, it can stay on surfaces such as metal, glass or plastic for as long as nine days (In comparison, flu viruses can last on surfaces for only about 48 hours.)

But some of them don't remain active for as long at temperatures higher than 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). The authors also found that these coronaviruses can be effectively wiped away by household disinfectants.

For example, disinfectants with 62-71% ethanol, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide or 0.1% sodium hypochlorite (bleach) can "efficiently" inactivate coronaviruses within a minute, according to the study. "We expect a similar effect against the 2019-nCoV," the researchers wrote, referring to the new coronavirus. But even though the new coronavirus is a similar strain to the SARS coronavirus, it's not clear if it will behave the same.

It's also not clear how frequently hands become contaminated with coronaviruses after touching a sick patient or contaminated surface, according to the study. The World Health Organization recommends washing hands or using alcohol-based hand rubs for decontamination of the hands, the authors wrote.

It's possible that a person can be infected with the virus by touching a contaminated surface or object, "then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "But this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads." Though the virus remains viable in the air, the new study can't say whether people can become infected by breathing it in from the air, according to the Associated Press.

The virus is most likely to spread from person to person through close contact and respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes that can land on a nearby person's mouth or nose, according to the CDC.

Note : People that have asthma, along with diabetes heart disease even mental healt issus make someone “more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.” As well as elderly and Pregnant women, children youngd and all medical staff treating corona virus effected patients.. key workers.. Infact.. All of us are at risk..

:: Healthy Immune System Help Fight Against Viruses Including Corona Virus - COVID-19 ::

Sadly, too many of us don’t eat enough of the fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods we need to keep ourselves healthy year-round. You can’t just eat an orange or grapefruit and expect one quick burst of vitamin C to prevent a cold. A truly healthy immune system depends on a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals over time, plus normal sleep patterns and a hefty dose of exercise.

With some exceptions, it’s best to get your vitamins and minerals from your food rather than in pill form. Here are some tips for getting the top vitamins and minerals your immune system needs to perform.

Vitamin C You probably know about vitamin C’s connection to the immune system, but did you know you can get it from much more than just citrus fruits? Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale, bell peppers, brussels sprouts, strawberries and papaya are also excellent sources. In fact, vitamin C is in so many foods that most people may not need to take supplements unless a doctor advises it.
Vitamin E Like vitamin C, vitamin E can be a powerful antioxidant that helps your body fight off infection. Almonds, peanuts, hazelnuts and sunflower seeds are all high in vitamin E. So are spinach and broccoli if you prefer to increase your intake through meals rather than snacks.

This important vitamin part of nearly 200 biochemical reactions in your body is critical in how your immune system functions. Foods high in vitamin B6 include bananas, lean chicken breast, cold-water fish such as tuna, baked potatoes and chickpeas. Bring on the hummus!

Vitamin A For vitamin A, go colorful. Foods that are high in colorful compounds called carotenoids carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cantaloupe and squash are all great options. The body turns these carotenoids into vitamin A, and they have an antioxidant effect to help strengthen the immune system against infection.

Vitamin D As mentioned above, it’s best to get most of your vitamins from food, but vitamin D may be the exception to that rule. You can increase your intake through foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines) and fortified foods such as milk, orange juice and cereals. Many people have a hard time absorbing vitamin D from food, so if you have a vitamin D deficiency, talk to your doctor about supplements.

Folate/folic acid Folate is the natural form, and folic acid is the synthetic form, often added to foods because of its health benefits. To get more folate, add more beans and peas to your plate on a regular basis, as well as leafy green vegetables. You can also get folic acid in fortified foods (check the label) such as enriched breads, pastas, rice and other 100 percent whole-grain products.

Iron Iron, which helps your body carry oxygen to cells, comes in different forms. Your body can more easily absorb “heme iron,” which is abundant in lean poultry such as chicken and turkey, plus seafood. But never fear, vegetarians: You can get other forms of iron in beans, broccoli and kale.

Selenium Selenium seems to have a powerful effect on the immune system, including the potential to slow the body’s over-active responses to certain aggressive forms of cancer. You can find it in garlic, broccoli, sardines, tuna, brazil nuts and barley, among other foods.

Zinc You can find zinc in oysters, crab, lean meats and poultry, baked beans (skip the kind with added sugar), yogurt and chickpeas. Zinc appears to help slow down the immune response and control inflammation in your body.

:: When You Can’t Eat Fresh Eat Frozen Something Is Better Than Nothing ::

Depending on where you live and what time of year it is, you can’t always get your hands on high-quality fresh produce. Keep this in mind: Frozen is fine. Manufacturers freeze frozen fruits and veggies at “peak” ripeness, which means they’ll pack a similar nutritional value as their fresh counterparts. Just choose plain frozen foods rather than those with added sugars or sodium.

:: Immune system boosters ::
Feeding your body certain foods may help keep your immune system strong. If you're looking for ways to prevent winter colds and the flu, your first step should be a visit to your local grocery store. Plan your meals to include these 15 powerful immune system boosters.

1. Citrus fruits Most people turn to vitamin C after they've caught a cold. That’s because it helps build up your immune system. Vitamin C is thought to increase the production of white blood cells. These are key to fighting infections.

Popular citrus fruits include:
* grapefruit *
oranges
* tangerines
* lemons
* limes
* clementines

Because your body doesn't produce or store it, you need daily vitamin C for continued health. Almost all citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. With such a variety to choose from, it's easy to add a squeeze of this vitamin to any meal.
2. Red bell peppers If you think citrus fruits have the most vitamin C of any fruit or vegetable, think again. Ounce for ounce, red bell peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus. They’re also a rich source of beta carotene. Besides boosting your immune system, vitamin C may help maintain healthy skin. Beta carotene helps keep your eyes and skin healthy.

3. Broccoli Broccoli is supercharged with vitamins and minerals. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants and fiber, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can put on your table. The key to keeping its power intact is to cook it as little as possible or better yet, not at all.

4. Garlic Garlic is found in almost every cuisine in the world. It adds a little zing to food and it's a must-have for your health. Early civilizations recognized its value in fighting infections. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health Trusted Source, garlic may also help lower blood pressure and slow down hardening of the arteries. Garlic’s immune-boosting properties seem to come from a heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin.

5. Ginger Ginger is another ingredient many turn to after getting sick. Ginger may help decrease inflammation, which can help reduce a sore throat and other inflammatory illnesses. Ginger may also help decrease nausea. While it's used in many sweet desserts, ginger packs some heat in the form of gingerol, a relative of capsaicin. Ginger may help decrease chronic pain and may possess cholesterol-lowering properties, according to recent animal research Trusted Source.

6. Spinach Spinach made our list not just because it's rich in vitamin C. It's also packed with numerous antioxidants and beta carotene, which may increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. Similar to broccoli, spinach is healthiest when it’s cooked as little as possible so that it retains its nutrients. However, light cooking enhances its vitamin A and allows other nutrients to be released from oxalic acid.

7. Yogurt Look for yogurts that have "live and active cultures" printed on the label, like Greek yogurt. These cultures may stimulate your immune system to help fight diseases. Try to get plain yogurts rather than the kinds that are preflavored and loaded with sugar. You can sweeten plain yogurt yourself with healthy fruits and a drizzle of honey instead. Yogurt can also be a great source of vitamin D, so try to select brands fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D helps regulate the immune system and is thought to boost our body’s natural defenses against diseases.

8. Almonds When it comes to preventing and fighting off colds, vitamin E tends to take a backseat to vitamin C. However, vitamin E is key to a healthy immune system. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it requires the presence of fat to be absorbed properly. Nuts, such as almonds, are packed with the vitamin and also have healthy fats. A half-cup serving, which is about 46 whole, shelled almonds, provides nearly 100 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin E.

9. Turmeric You may know turmeric as a key ingredient in many curries. But this bright yellow, bitter spice has also been used for years as an anti-inflammatory in treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also, research Trusted Source shows that high concentrations of curcumin, which gives turmeric its distinctive color, can help decrease exercise-induced muscle damage.

10. Green tea Both green and black teas are packed with flavonoids, a type of antioxidant. Where green tea really excels is in its levels of epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, another powerful antioxidant. EGCG has been shown to enhance immune function.
The fermentation process black tea goes through destroys a lot of the EGCG. Green tea, on the other hand, is steamed and not fermented, so the EGCG is preserved.
Green tea is also a good source of the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine may aid in the production of germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells.

11. Papaya Papaya is another fruit loaded with vitamin C. You can find 224 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C in a single papaya. Papayas also have a digestive enzyme called papain that has anti-inflammatory effects.
Papayas have decent amounts of potassium, B vitamins, and folate, all of which are beneficial to your overall health.

12. Kiwi Like papayas, kiwis are naturally full of a ton of essential nutrients, including folate, potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin C. Vitamin C boosts white blood cells to fight infection, while kiwi’s other nutrients keep the rest of your body functioning properly.

13. Poultry When you’re sick, chicken soup is more than just a feel-good food with a placebo effect. It helps improve symptoms of a cold and also helps protect you from getting sick in the first place. Poultry, such as chicken and turkey, is high in vitamin B-6. About 3 ounces of light turkey or chicken meat contains 40 to 50 percent of your daily recommended amount of B-6
Vitamin B-6 is an important player in many of the chemical reactions that happen in the body. It’s also vital to the formation of new and healthy red blood cells. Stock or broth made by boiling chicken bones contains gelatin, chondroitin, and other nutrients helpful for gut healing and immunity.

14. Sunflower seeds Sunflower seeds are full of nutrients, including phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamin B-6. They’re also incredibly high in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E is important in regulating and maintaining immune system function. Other foods with high amounts of vitamin E include avocados and dark leafy greens.

15. Fish Fish isn’t what jumps to mind for many who are trying to boost their immune system, but some types of fish are packed with zinc.
Zinc doesn’t get as much attention as many other vitamins and minerals, but our bodies need it so that our immune cells can function as intended.

Keep in mind that you don’t want to have more than the daily recommended amount of zinc in your diet. For adult men, it’s 11 milligrams (mg), and for women, it’s 8 mg. Too much zinc can actually inhibit immune system function.

:: HEALTH BENEFITS OF KALONJI (BLACK) SEEDS ::
Kalonji is a well-known spice that helps in giving a nice aroma to food. It is perfect for health and possesses many medicinal properties too. In English, it is called fennel flower, black caraway, nutmeg flower, Roman coriander. The most common English name for it is Black Seed. The oil extracted from Black Seed has a rich composition of more than 100 compounds including essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, comprised of approximately 21% protein, 38% carbohydrates, and 35% plant fats and oils.

How it is beneficial to Diabetics
1) It is effective in regulating your blood sugar levels. You must regularly check your blood sugar level, as it considerably lowers it down. Diabetics can consume it by adding Kalonji oil in black tea. This can be consumed on an empty stomach to get effective results.

2) In one cup of Black Tea, mix half teaspoon Black Seed oil and drink it in the morning and before going to bed. Check Sugar level – stop the dosage if sugar levels are normal.

For Heart complaints & Constriction of Veins 1) It helps in boosting heart health by controlling bad cholesterol levels in your body.

2) Take half teaspoon of Black Seed oil mixed with any hot drink daily in the mornings, this will liquefy the fats and widen the veins and arteries.

For Hypertension
Hypertension symptoms can be controlled naturally with the help of Kalonji seeds.

1) Take half teaspoon of Black Seed oil with any hot drink at any time. Apply Black Seed oil to your whole body and expose it to the sun every three days, continue the treatment for a month.

2) Support weight loss Kalonji seeds when consumed with warm water help in promoting weight loss. It helps in loosening the extra fat and makes you look slim and trim.

Other health benefits
1) It also helps stimulate excretion of urine, quell colic pain, expel worms, stimulate menstrual period.

2) Boosts Memory Kalonji seeds are related with alleviating your intellectual level. It also boosts your memorizing ability, and you can take this in any age.

3) A Cough and Cold Remedy If you add a few drops to your coffee or tea it can help calm the nervous system, dry cough, asthma, and bronchial respiratory complaints.

4) Strengthens Teeth Kalonji is an excellent natural remedy to treat your dental diseases. It also helps you stop toothaches.

5) Cure Constipation Kalonji, when consumed with black tea, can help you cure your constipation problem easily and more efficiently.

6) Cure Cracked Heels Soak your feet in warm water containing one teaspoon Kalonji oil and lemon juice. This will help cure your cracked heels faster.

7) Boost Immune System The use of Black Seed significantly improves the T-cell ratio and enhances the natural killer cell activity. Thus Black Seed help in the treatment of cancer and AIDS.

8) Natural Pain Killer Kalonji is a natural painkiller without any side-effects. It is best used for getting rid of headaches. You can apply Kalonji oil over your forehead and quickly purge off your aches. Its oil is also used to cure joint pain.

9) Skin Problems Kalonji helps in maintaining a glowing and clear skin. It fights against acne, scars, blemishes, pimples, etc. Use it by adding its oil to your face pack or by mixing with lime juice.

:: Side-Effects & Allergies of Kalonji / Black Seed ::

This doesn’t pose any side effects, when taken in small quantities. However, when taken in large amounts, it can lead to low blood pressure or low blood sugar levels which pose a risk to life. Its effect is not much known during breastfeeding. So, to remain on the safe side, you must avoid its use during breastfeeding.

During surgery or after surgery, it can pose a risk of bleeding and might hinder your surgery. It also slows down the clotting process. If you take the Black Seed oil unmixed or undiluted it can produce gripe and irritate the digestive system.

:: Benefits of black seed oil ::
Scientists with a range of specialties have researched the possible benefits of black seed oil.
However, it is important to note that many studies to date have used cells or animals as models, and there is limited research available on the effects of black seed oil in humans.

Benefits for weight loss Research has shown that black seed supplementation can help lower people’s body mass index (BMI). The study participants did not report any severe side effects from taking this supplement. A systematic review published in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders in 2013 found that black seed oil could be effective in tackling obesity.

Benefits for the skin Black seed oil may be beneficial for people with the following skin conditions:

* Eczema: According to a study comparing the therapeutic benefits of N. sativa with those of prescription medications, black seed oil can reduce the severity of hand eczema.

* Acne: Research suggests that the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of black seed oil can improve acne. In one study, 58 percent of participants rated their response to this treatment as good, while 35 percent felt their results were moderate.

* Psoriasis: A suggests that the oil may also have antipsoriatic benefits.
Black seed oil may also hydrate hair, soften skin, and act as a moisturizer, although there is a lack of scientific evidence to confirm these benefits.

Benefits for health conditions
Black seed oil may also be beneficial for some health conditions, including the following:

:: Cancer ::
Recent studies have shown that the thymoquinone in black seed oil can influence programmed cell death, or apoptosis, in several types of cancer cell. These include brain cancer, leukemia, and breast cancer cells.

However, much of the research on the effects of black seed oil on cancer uses cells rather than live humans, so researchers do not yet know how effective the oil may be to treat people with cancer.

:: Liver and kidney function ::
Black seed oil may reduce liver and kidney disease complications and improve the organ structures. Researchers do not know if these effects would also occur in humans.

:: Diabetes ::
Lack seed oil may have antidiabetic properties and improve blood sugar levels. Again, this study used animal models, so more research is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of the oil in humans. Infertility.

A placebo-controlled clinical trial on men with abnormal sperm and infertility has found that black seed oil can improve sperm movement and increase sperm count and semen volume.

:: Side effects and risks ::
People should not use black seed oil in place of medication. Although black seed oil seems to offer certain health benefits, this supplement does not replace medication.
People taking medication should talk to their doctor before using herbal supplements, such as black seed oil.

The doctor can advise on possible interactions with the medication and also discuss the potential benefits and side effects of the supplement. It is essential never to stop taking medication without a doctor’s advice.
As with any supplement, pregnant or breastfeeding women should talk to their doctor to see if black seed oil is right for them before using it.

With topical use, black seed oil can cause an allergic rash in some people. Therefore, it is vital to test it on a small patch of skin first to ensure that it does not trigger a reaction.
People must also take care to keep the oil away from the eyes, nostrils, and other sensitive body parts.

Swallowing black seed oil can sometimes lead to digestive problems, such as stomach upset, constipation, and vomiting. To get the safest and most beneficial black seed oil, always choose high-quality, organic black seed oil that is 100-percent pure, therapeutic grade.
Many studies have shown that it may have health and cosmetic benefits for various medical and skin conditions, although these studies often use animal or cell models rather than humans.

More research into the effects of N. sativa in humans is necessary to confirm its benefits.
Always talk to a doctor before taking black seed oil, and choose 100-percent pure, therapeutic-grade, certified organic black seed oil.

Many health stores sell black seed oil, and it is available in both liquid and capsule form.

:: CLEANESS IS BASICS OF ISLAM ::
REMEMBER : RIGIT INFORMATION AND RIGHT ADVICE IS KEY OF SURVIVAL

Benefits of Performing Wudu in Islam [Ablution]
Wudu (ablution) is an Arabic word which means the specific action of washing certain body parts including hands, mouth, arms, nostrils, feet and face. In the Islam, it has great importance.

Wudu Importance: Cleanliness has great importance in the Islam. Ablution keeps you clean and pure. It protects you from several physical diseases. It is obligatory for the Muslims perform it before the prayers.
Both the Quran and the Hadith emphasized many times on the importance of purification. It is the part of Faith. It gives you mental, physical and spiritual health.

As for offering prayers, five times a day is necessary for all the Muslims. It is obligatory for Muslims offer their prayers. But prayers mean nothing if you do not perform ablution.
In the Islamic religion, cleanliness has great importance. In the Quran and the Hadith, significance’s of cleanliness are mentioned various times. It shows the importance of purity in the Islam.

It has great benefits for you. You will remain healthy and active, gain the blessings and mercy of the Allah. If you remain clean, it will affect your physical as well as mental health.
Ablution is obligatory before the prayers and also before reciting the Quran. Before worship Almighty Allah, it is compulsory that you are in the state of purity.

:: Acts of Performing Wudhu ::
1. First of all, make a Niyah of prayer in the heart.
2. Then says or recite Bismillah in the Arabic language.
3. Then wash your hands properly till the wrists starting from the right hand.
4. After it takes water in your right hand and put in the mouth for three times.
5. After it, wash your nostrils properly three times with the right hand.
6. Then wash your face three times with both hands.
7. Over it, wash your right arm till the elbow for three times, similarly wash your left arm three times.
8. Then wash your head from the forehead to the back. Then, clean your ears with the hands.
9. In the last, put water on the right and left feet for three times. This is the last step of ablution.
These steps are necessary for the ablution before offering prayers or worshiping Almighty Allah.

:: Benefits of Wudu :
There are many benefits of doing ablution. Here I discussed some of these Wudu benefits.

1- Removing Germs: Although ablution is not prescribed as a medicine, but it has various benefits on human health. For example, in everyday life after starting the day, you touch various things in a day. These things can contain various types of germs which are harmful to your health. So if you do Wudu, you definitely wash your hand. It will wash out all the germs from your hands.

2- Protect from Wrinkles and Lines: Wudu is prescribed by Allah, but now its benefits are also scientifically proven. Like during Wudu, you wash your mouth several times in a day, it will protect you from tooth problems. Similarly, by washing your face several times in a day, your face will be protected from the wrinkles and lines.

3- Prevent From Health Issues: It will prevent you from several physical health issues.

4- Purity of your Body: It will give you physical purity. All your body parts are washed various times due to ablution, so it gives you purification.

5- Protect you on the Day of Judgment: According to the Hadith, ablution eliminates all your bad deeds and sins. The Messenger of the Allah, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) also mentioned the importance of Wudu in the Hadith. According to them, ablution will protect you on the Day of Judgment.

6- Blessings of Allah: Try to remain in the state of Wudu every time. It has various benefits for you. Along with physical health, you will get the Blessings of Allah Almighty. If you die in the state of ablution, you will be martyred.

7- Gaining Cleanliness: It is the Sunnah sleeping in the condition of purity. And it is the best way of gaining purity and cleanliness. So make a habit of performing ablution daily before sleeping.

8- Inner Peace: It will strengthen you spiritually. It will give you inner peace.

9- Preserving wudu is a sign of Faith: So it is the matter of your faith. To strengthen your faith, always remain in the state of purity. According to the hadith: “Cleanliness is the part of faith.”

10- Wudu is a radiance and the Believers are encouraged to increase in it: Abu Hurayrah (R.A) said, “Whoever can increase the area of his radiance should do so.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

11- Asking Dua after wudu is a means of Entering Jannah: “Whoever of you performs Wudu carefully and then affirms: `Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallahu Wahdahu la sharika Lahu, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan `abduhu wa Rasuluhu [I testify that there so no true god except Allah Alone, Who has no partners and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger],’ the eight gates of Jannah are opened for him. He may enter through whichever of these gates he desires (to enter).” [Muslim]

:: Conclusion ::
Try to remain in the state of Wudu every time. It will bring you closer to the Almighty Allah. Before worship Allah, it is compulsory to perform ablution.

:: What Is an Antibody Test ::
There are two types: IGM, which peaks at about 10 days after infection, and IGG, which takes four or five weeks before it peaks. That's the problem with these kits and indeed with all antibody testing, it's the timing and the relationship to the infection.

You may hear it called a serology test. It looks for certain things called antibodies in your blood. Your body makes these when it fights an infection, like COVID-19. The same thing happens when you get a vaccine, like a flu shot. That’s how you develop immunity to a virus.

The antibody test isn’t checking for the virus itself. Instead, it looks to see whether your immune system your body’s defense against illness has responded to the infection.

:: How Does It Work ::
You will have to give some blood, like through a finger prick. Doctors test for two kinds of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2.
They look for:

* IgM antibodies, which develop early in an infection, and IgG antibodies, which are more likely to show up later after you’ve recovered It takes your body about 4 weeks to develop IgM antibodies. But scientists aren’t sure how long it’ll take for this to happen with SARS-CoV-2. More tests are needed to find out. Keep in mind that current antibody tests can’t tell you if you’re immune to COVID-19. That's because we don't know how long these antibodies might protect you against the coronavirus. And these tests shouldn’t be used to diagnose the virus.

:: How Do They Help ::
Antibody tests can show how common COVID-19 is. Once scientists know who has had the virus, they can find out how sick it makes most people. And they can study what happens if people who've had it are exposed to it again. When paired with other scientific information, this can help researchers understand who might be immune to the virus. The hope is that people with antibodies to COVID-19 can safely get back to work, and normal life, quicker.

These tests may also help with an experimental treatment for COVID-19 called convalescent plasma. Plasma is the liquid part of your blood.

Researchers are studying how antibodies in plasma donated by people who’ve recovered from COVID-19 might help those who are ill with the virus. One theory is that this plasma may help sick people get better faster. But more research is needed.

:: Who Should Get One ::
If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19 and have fully recovered, you can probably get your antibodies tested now. You can volunteer to donate plasma through the National COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Project. Or ask your local blood donation center for information.

:: How Can You Get One ::
You can't do these tests at home. And they aren’t widely available yet. But you can ask your doctor or local hospital if there’s a way you can get your antibodies checked.

:: Are They Accurate ::
If you test positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, that usually means you’ve had COVID-19. But you may get a negative result if you’ve only had the virus a short time. And it’s possible to get exposed and not develop antibodies. You may also get a “false positive.” That means you have antibodies but had a different kind of coronavirus.

:: Be Aware ::
Many companies have made false claims about how well their antibody tests work. Local governments must crack down on any manufacturer who sells a bad or fake test.

:: WHAT IS IVIG? ::
Intravenous immune globulin ("IVIG") is a product made up of antibodies that can be given intravenously (through a vein). Antibodies are proteins that your body makes to help you fight infections. Each antibody made by your body is slightly different, because it fits like a lock and key to every foreign substance (such as a virus) that gets into your body.

This is why you need a new flu shot every year; each year the flu virus is slightly different, and different antibodies (which the vaccine causes your body to produce) are required to protect you. Over the course of your life your body makes thousands of different antibodies as you are exposed to different proteins that your body considers to be "foreign." IVIG is prepared from the blood donated by thousands of people, to make a super-concentrated and very diverse collection of antibodies against many possible foreign substances your body might encounter.

:: WHY DO I NEED IVIG? ::
IVIG is used primarily in two situations. One reason you might need IVIG is if your body does not make enough antibodies. Another name for this is humoral immunodeficiency. The IVIG simply provides extra antibodies that your body cannot make on its own. IVIG also provides a wide range of antibodies to help fill in for those your own immune system has not encountered. The antibodies usually last for several weeks and help your body fight off a large variety of infections. If you are getting IVIG for this reason, you will need to get it on a regular schedule.

A second reason you might need IVIG is if your immune system has started attacking your own body. Conditions in which this happens include:

Immune system destruction of your own blood platelets (known as immune thrombocytopenia [ITP])
Immune system destruction of your own red blood cells (known as autoimmune hemolytic anemia [AIHA])
Immune system attack on your nervous system, such as nerves that control your breathing (in Guillain-Barré syndrome) or nerves that control sensation (for example, in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy [CIDP])
It is not completely known how the IVIG works to prevent your immune system from attacking your own body. Experts believe it does a combination of things, including effect the immune cells and the antibodies they produce.

:: HOW IS IVIG GIVEN? ::
IVIG is given into a vein ("intravenously"), in an infusion that takes one hour or more. The amount of IVIG you need for each dose depends on your weight as well as the reason you are getting the IVIG:

Less IVIG is needed if the purpose is to replace the antibodies your body should be producing. However, you need to continue to receive it on a regular basis. Your doctor will determine how often you need the infusions, and how long you will need to continue to get them (this may need to be re-evaluated periodically depending on your diagnosis).

More IVIG per dose is needed if the purpose is to block your immune system from attacking your own body. However, you may not need too many doses. Your doctor can usually tell after one or a few doses whether the IVIG is going to work.

There are a number of different brands of IVIG that are mostly the same but have some slight differences. You probably will not notice a difference between the brands, but a small number of people do. In general, if you are going to be receiving IVIG on a regular basis, it may be best to use the same brand every time to reduce the risk of side effects.

IVIG usually is given in a doctor's office or hospital. In some cases, it can be given in the home, if proper arrangements are made. It is important that you are comfortable with where you will be receiving your IVIG and that you let your provider know if you have any questions or concerns related to personal limitations you may be facing.

:: IVIG SIDE EFFECTS ::
Many people do not have side effects from IVIG, but there are a lot of possible side effects, especially if you are not receiving the IVIG on a regular basis and/or if you are receiving larger doses of IVIG. However, over the course of their treatment, up to half of people may experience one side effect, usually minor or bothersome but not dangerous. Very rarely, more serious side effects like allergic reactions or blood clots can occur.

The most common side effect is headache. Other side effects include chills, fever, flushing, flu-like muscle pains or joint pains, feeling tired, having nausea, vomiting, and allergic-type reactions. For the most part, these reactions are mild and typically happen with the first dose of IVIG or if you change to a different brand of IVIG. You will be monitored to watch for these and other reactions. Side effects that can happen a day or more after you receive IVIG include blood clots, rashes, kidney problems, and low blood counts.
Your doctor may do several things to reduce the chance of having these side effects, including:

Performing certain blood tests before the IVIG is started
Keeping you well hydrated, in some cases giving extra fluids (by mouth or intravenously)

:: Giving the infusion more slowly ::
Dividing a large dose into several smaller doses that are given over several days
Giving you pain-relieving medications prior to your infusion –
These may include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol); a non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug or "NSAID" such as ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve); or glucocorticoids. However, many people do not require these medications before the IVIG is given.

Some patients may be given a medicine like aspirin to help prevent blood clots. Your doctor may also advise you not to sit still for long periods of time (for example, on an airplane flight) in the day or two following the infusion.
Some people worry about contracting a disease through IVIG, since it is made from blood donated by other people. The risk of getting a viral infection from IVIG is considered exceedingly low. No one has ever gotten HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) from IVIG, and the methods used to purify IVIG will destroy bacteria, hepatitis viruses, and other infectious organisms.
However, no one can predict every new infection that may develop. This is one of the reasons IVIG is only given when it is really needed, and records of the specific IVIG lot number are kept.

ARE THERE ANY ALTERNATIVES TO IVIG
If you are receiving IVIG to provide extra antibodies, the two major alternatives are immune globulin given subcutaneously (as an injection under the skin) or intramuscularly (as an injection into a muscle). Subcutaneous immune globulin (SCIG) has fewer side effects and may be a good option for some people. Since you get a smaller amount, this usually applies to people who are getting the treatment to give the body's immune system extra antibodies to fight infections. If you are receiving IVIG to block your immune system from damaging some of your own cells, there are several alternative medicines that can control your immune system.

Commonly used medicines to block the immune system include glucocorticoids like prednisone and dexamethasone or certain medicines that target antibody-producing cells, like rituximab (brand name: Rituxan). However, these medicines often take several days or weeks to work, so IVIG may be a good option if you need a treatment that works rapidly.

Plasmapheresis (filtering your blood, also called plasma exchange) may also be an option.

Another form of antibodies is called Rh(D) immune globulin (sample brand name: RhoGam); this is the form of antibodies given to some pregnant women to prevent problems related to the baby having a different blood type from the mother. Rh(D) immune globulin contains antibodies directed against some proteins on red blood cells and can sometimes make you anemic.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW Vaccines may not work as well in the weeks to months after the IVIG is given because the IVIG may block the immune system from responding appropriately to the vaccine. However, it is important to get certain vaccines, and you are better protected if you get the vaccines than if you do not. Discuss the best timing with your doctor.

Keep records of the lot number and date you received your IVIG infusions. This is important for keeping track of which products worked best for you and for testing if you think you had a side effect related to the IVIG. If a specific brand of IVIG is working well for you, it is safer not to substitute a different brand.

CHLOROQUINE
:: GOOD 4 ONE CAN BE DEADLY 4 OTHER :: Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine Can Have Serious Side Effects, Two old drugs used for malaria, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, are being studied for their potential to treat coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) Side effects from these drugs can be very serious and include irregular heart rhythms that can result in death

In response to COVID-19, healthcare providers and scientists around the world are trying to find treatments. It has been suggested that chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine might be effective additions to treatment of COVID-19 in some patients. These drugs have been used for decades for malaria and, more recently, for some types of arthritis.

Their possible use for COVID-19 is based on experience from the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak of 2003 (also caused by a coronavirus), expert opinion, in-vitro observations (in the test tube, not people), and early results of clinical trials currently taking place in hospitalized patients. Despite recent public endorsements, the use of these medications for treatment of COVID-19 is still experimental, and they should not be used without close monitoring by a physician in one of these trials. It might turn out that neither of these medicines effectively treats or prevents COVID-19.

When a virus infects cells in your body, it tricks the cells into using their own machinery to make copies of the virus instead of doing all the things your cells would normally do to keep you alive and healthy. The COVID-19 virus targets cells in the lungs. Infected lung cells start creating a huge number of copies of the COVID-19 virus. Eventually the cells are overwhelmed and die. The dead cells burst, and the many copies of the virus are released. Those copies of the virus infect more lung cells, and the process repeats itself.

The unprecedented spread and severity of COVID-19 has left everyone trying to rapidly adapt. Scientists and physicians are testing chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to see if these medications might benefit patients who are seriously ill from COVID-19.

There is a long safety and effectiveness assessment process that a new drug has to go through before it can be used to treat human illness. Medications like chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine that are approved to treat other human illnesses have already been through the FDA approval process for those other uses, and their safety profiles have been established.

The time to approval for a new use could be greatly reduced if they are found to be effective in treating COVID-19. However, it is important to remember that we are still in the experimental phase, and these medications should not be used at home to treat or prevent COVID-19.

Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are currently being given to some confirmed positive, hospitalized COVID-19 patients who have severe symptoms plus one or more risk factors. These critically ill patients might already be on a ventilator to assist breathing. They have been evaluated to make sure they have no pre-existing medical conditions that would exclude them from taking the drugs.
Once the patient is approved, the drugs are dispensed from the Strategic National Stockpile. Patients are connected to continuous heart monitors and also get serial electrocardiograms (electrical monitoring of the heart) to look for abnormal heart rhythms before they become life-threatening. Some people have had to be taken off chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine therapies because the healthcare team found that they were developing one of these dangerous heart rhythms. Additionally, a patient who is sedated and on a ventilator cannot be assessed for other serious side effects of the drugs, such as changes in vision and hearing, neuropsychiatric events, and intense nausea.
Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine have major drug interactions with other medicines that can put a person at an even greater risk of an abnormal heart rhythm. For example, a commonly used antibiotic, azithromycin, is also being investigated for a possible benefit in treating COVID-19, but it has a known major drug interaction with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. Whenever a new drug is to be added, the risk versus benefit of a person's existing therapy must be revaluated. In some cases, usual medications can be stopped temporarily, and chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine could be started. In other cases, it would be harmful to stop usual medications, and chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine could not be used. Each situation is different and has to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

This is a rapidly evolving subject and there will no doubt be more information and misinformation coming. If you have questions, talk to a trusted healthcare provider or contact Poison Control.

:: From All Iinesses Viruses Pendamics Etc Etcs Safety Precautions from Holy Quran and Sunnah PBUH ::

Islam has a unique way of dealing with the outbreak of diseases in two stages; i.e. before and after the outbreak of the disease. Before the Outbreak of the Disease Islam calls its followers to protect themselves against diseases through the following guidelines:

1- One of the objectives of the Shariah is the preservation of the soul. Therefore, everyone must take all necessary measures to protect themselves against any harm.

2- Islam emphasizes the importance of cleanliness. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Purification is half of faith.” (Muslim) Islam made ablution a pre-requisite for the validity of prayer. Prophet Muhammad said: “If there were a river at the door of one of you in which he takes a bath five times a day, would any soiling remain on him?” They replied, “No soiling would left on him.” The Prophet said, “That is the five obligatory prayer. Allah obliterates all sins as a result of performing them.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) Purification includes washing the mouth.
Prophet Muhammad said: “Had I not thought it difficult for my Ummah, I would have commanded them to use the Miswak (tooth-stick) before every prayer.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Therefore, ablution and using tooth-stick are one of the means of protecting our bodies from diseases and viruses.

3- Islam urges Muslims to observe the characteristics of fitrah. Prophet Muhammad said:
“Five practices are the inborn characteristics of man; circumcision, shaving the pubes, plucking out hair under the armpit, paring the nails and clipping the moustaches. (Abu Dawud)
A close look at these rituals would reveal that they play a great role in protecting the body from diseases.

4- Islam made lawful for Muslims all the good foods and drinks and made unlawful to them all what causes harm to them and their bodies. We read in the Quran what means:
*{Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him – it is those who will be the successful.}* (Al-Araf 7:157)
Researches have proved that consuming unlawful meat causes serious diseases.

5- Islam urges Muslims to be moderate in consuming lawful food and drinks. Prophet Muhammad said:
“A human being has never filled any vessel which is worse than his own belly.” (At-Tirmidhi)
Prophet Muhammad commands Muslims to cover their food and drinks. He said:
“Cover up the (kitchen) containers (i.e., pots, pans, etc.), tie up the mouth of the water-skin, lock up the doors and extinguish the lamps, because Satan can neither untie the water-skin nor open the door nor uncover the containers. If one can cover the cooking pot even by placing a piece of wood across it, and pronounce the Name of Allah on it, let him do it. A mouse can sometimes cause a house to burn along its dwellers.” (Muslim)

6- Islam has put rules and regulations on interactions with the opposite gender. Islam prohibited adultery and homosexuality which are the causes of many diseases. After the Outbreak of the Disease

1- When a Muslim is afflicted with a certain disease, he has to look at it as a test from Allah the Almighty. Prophet Muhammad said: “How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything and this applies only to a believer. If prosperity attends him, he expresses gratitude to Allah and that is good for him; and if adversity befalls him, he endures it patiently and that is better for him.” (Muslim)
When you face trials and difficulties with patience, you feel inner peace and a state of psychological health that will help you defeat the disease.

2- Islam orders Muslims to seek medication. Prophet Muhammad said: “Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the exception of one disease, namely old age.” (Abu Dawud)

3- When there is an outbreak of a disease, Islam commands Muslims to practice quarantine. Prophet Muhammad said: If you get wind of the outbreak of plague in a land, do not enter it; and if it breaks out in a land in which you are, do not leave it.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

4- It is an act of sunnah to say these duaas (supplications) to protect yourself from coronavirus and other infectious diseases:
Prophet Muhammad used to say: “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from leprosy, madness, elephantiasis, and evil diseases.” (Abu Dawud)
When Prophet Muhammad visited any ailing member of his family, he would touch the sick person with his right hand and would supplicate:
[O Allah! the Lord of mankind! Remove this disease and cure (him or her)! You are the Great Curer. There is no cure but through You, which leaves behind no disease].” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
‘O Allah, make me healthy in my body. O Allah, make me healthy in my hearing. O Allah, make me healthy in my sight.
It is sunnah to read these chapters of the Quran on the sick person: Surat Al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Falaq, Surat An-Nas, Ayat al-Kursi, the last two verses from Surat al-Baqarah, and Al-Anbiya 21:83.
Allāh has blessed us with a religion that is complete and perfect for all times and places. Allāh tells us in the Qur’ān:
‎الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الْإِسْلَامَ دِينًا “This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion” We also have in the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam), the best of examples, as Allāh says in the Qur’ān:
‎لَّقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ “Surely there was a good example for you in the Messenger of Allāh”
Whatever problem or issue a Muslim is facing, he returns back to Allāh and his Messenger for guidance; there is nothing that happens in the life of a Muslim except that his religion has a solution to it.

We recently heard about the coronavirus which is spreading to a number of countries, affecting the lives of many people, causing death to others.

There are a number of thoughts that should cross the mind of a Muslim when they hear something like this. Below are some points that a person must remember and internalise when they see or hear of such incidents:
Trials and tribulations

Trials and tribulations are part of life, this is something that Allāh informs us of and warns us so that when we are afflicted, we remember that it is ultimately Allāh who controls of our affairs. It is He who will provide help and His knowledge of our affairs surpasses our restricted intellect. Allah says in the Qur’ān:
‎أَمْ حَسِبْتُمْ أَنْ تَدْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ وَلَمَّا يَأْتِكُمْ مَثَلُ الَّذِينَ خَلَوْا مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ مَسَّتْهُمُ الْبَأْسَاءُ وَالضَّرَّاءُ وَزُلْزِلُوا حَتَّى يَقُولَ الرَّسُولُ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مَعَهُ مَتَى نَصْرُ اللَّهِ أَلا إِنَّ نَصْرَ اللَّهِ قَرِيبٌ “Do you think you that you will enter Paradise without such [trials] as came to those who passed away before you? They were afflicted with severe poverty and ailments and were so shaken that even the Messenger and those who believed along with him said, ‘When [will] the Help of Allāh [come]?’ Yes! Certainly, the Help of Allāh is near!”
Allāh sends us tests to see how we will react and handle them. How are we going to respond? When you hear the news that your umrah trip is cancelled because of this virus, how will you respond? When you hear your flights have been cancelled, your loved ones have fallen ill, how will you respond? Allāh says in the Qur’ān:
‎وَلَنَبۡلُوَنَّكُم بِشَىۡءٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡخَوۡفِ وَٱلۡجُوعِ وَنَقۡصٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡأَمۡوَلِ وَٱلۡأَنفُسِ وَٱلثَّمَرتِ‌ۗ وَبَشِّرِ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ” “And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient”

So how do we respond to a calamity
Allāh tells us immediately after the previous āyah:
‎ٱلَّذِينَ إِذَآ أَصَـٰبَتۡهُم مُّصِيبَةٌ۬ قَالُوٓاْ إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّآ إِلَيۡهِ رَجِعُونَ “Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allāh, and indeed to Him we will return.’”
A Muslim is patient in trials; he knows Allāh will never forsake him, nor will Allāh burden him with a trial that is more than what he can handle.
This is not something new
Illnesses and viruses such as the coronavirus are not something new, nor is the fact that people are afflicted with illnesses. The companions once asked the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam):
‎يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ , أَيُّ النَّاسِ أَشَدُّ بَلاءً ؟ قَالَ : الأَنْبِيَاءُ , ثُمَّ الأَمْثَلُ فَالأَمْثَلُ “Oh Messenger of Allāh, who from amongst the people were tested the most? The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) responded and said, the Prophets, then the next best and then the next best.”
We see the great Prophet of Allāh, Ayyūb (ʿalayhi al-Salām),اwas tested with a great illness.

His story is synonymous with patience. He lost everything; his family, wealth, and health. Some narrations say he was bedridden for 18 years, tested with a great illness, yet we find he did not give up hope in Allāh and turned to him in this great trial. Some scholars have said that his illness was so severe that his flesh dropped from his body and nothing remained on him except his bones and muscles. Allāh tells us his story in the Qur’ān:
‎وَأَيُّوبَ إِذْ نَادَىٰ رَبَّهُ أَنِّي مَسَّنِيَ الضُّرُّ وَأَنتَ أَرْحَمُ الرَّاحِمِينَ “And Ayyūb, when he called to his Lord, saying ‘Harm has inflicted me and You are the Most Merciful”
‎فَاسْتَجَبْنَا لَهُ فَكَشَفْنَا مَا بِهِ مِن ضُرٍّ ۖ وَآتَيْنَاهُ أَهْلَهُ وَمِثْلَهُم مَّعَهُمْ رَحْمَةً مِّنْ عِندِنَا وَذِكْرَىٰ لِلْعَابِدِينَ “So We answered him and removed his affliction and We gave him his family and the like of them with them, as a mercy from Us and a reminder to Worshippers.”
The story of Prophet Ayyūb (ʿalayhi al-Salām) is one filled with lessons for us to ponder over. The virtue of patience is shown to us in the Prophet Ayyūb (ʿalayhi al-Salām) through some of the most dire situations that one can come across in life.

:: Qadr ::
The concept of pre-destination is extremely important for a Muslim to understand. When incidents such as the coronavirus occur, a Muslim should know that this is what Allāh had decreed 50,000 years before the creation of the universe.

The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) explained: “Allāh had written the ordained measures (and due proportions) of the creation, fifty thousand years before the creation of the heavens and the earth…”
All good and bad is from Allāh, as is mentioned in the Hadeeth of Jabir: ‘No slave of Allāh will truly believe until he believes in al-Qadr; its good and bad from Allāh, and until he knows that what has befallen him was not going to miss him and that what missed him was not going to befallen him.’
Allāh will never harm us nor does he want evil to befall us. We may think something is bad for us due to our restricted view of life, but there is always good in a situation. Allāh tells us that perhaps you hate a thing but it is in fact good for you, and perhaps you love a thing when in reality and it is bad for you, yet Allāh knows while you know not!

A believer has two positions when it comes to pre-destination: one is before the situation occurs, and one is after. Before the situation he seeks help from Allāh, makes dua to him, and relies upon him; he asks Allāh for good to come from it.

After the situation, if the result was positive and good the person thanks Allāh. If the event had a negative outcome the person is patient because he knows that Allāh will never forsake him even if it seems the result is negative, because indeed Allāh is the best of planners.
:: Taking necessary precautions :: A Muslim should not overreact; at the same time he should not be oblivious about a situation and do nothing!

Taking the necessary means and then relying upon Allāh is something which is emphasised in Islam.
“One day Prophet Muhammad (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam), noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel without tying it. He asked the Bedouin, ‘Why don’t you tie down your camel?’ The Bedouin answered, ‘I put my trust in Allāh’ The Prophet then said, ‘Tie your camel first, then put your trust in Allāh’
We also find in the incident of Umar (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) taking necessary precautions is a must when you know of a harm or potential danger that could afflict you.
Umar ibn al-Khattab was traveling with a group of companions during his reign. They approached a town in which it was said had a contagious/infectious disease. Umar asked his group whether they should proceed or return (to Madinah). The majority of the companions said they should go back but some said they should proceed.

Then one companion said he knew a hadith where the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) said, “If you hear that this disease exists in a country, do not travel to that country.” So Umar decided that they should go back. Another companion asked him whether he was running away from qadar. Umar replied that they were moving away from one qadar to another qadar.

Whenever there is a problem, a challenge, or any hardship which we can remove, overcome, solve, or minimise, we must do so.

Most of the health guidelines given by the national health care services in the world are in fact normal practices for Muslims, some of which are as follows

1. Washing hands: this is a part of ablution, a Muslim’s daily ritual of purity.

2. General cleanliness
The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) said:
‎الطَّهُورُ شَطْرُ الْإِيمَانِ “Cleanliness is part of faith”
Keeping our surroundings tidy, cleaning up after ourselves, and wiping surfaces down are all aspects of cleanliness which must be adhered to in these situations.

3. Covering your mouth when sneezing The Prophet would cover his mouth when he sneezed. This basic etiquette can take big part in the stopping of the spread of viruses “Whenever the Messenger of Allāh (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) sneezed, he would cover his mouth with his hand or a piece of cloth.”

4. Quarantine in times of viruses which can spread. The Prophet gave instructions on what to do if there is an outbreak. Abd al-Rahmān ibn ‘Awf (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) that he said:
“I heard the Messenger of Allāh (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) say: “If you hear that it (the plague) is in a land, do not go there, and if it breaks out in a land where you are, do not leave, fleeing from it.”
The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) also taught us how to protect ourselves by maintaining our adhkar from the Sunnah. One such dua that he taught us was:
‎بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الَّذِي لَا يَضُرُّ مَعَ اسْمِهِ شَيْءٌ فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَا فِي السَّمَاءِ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ “In the name of Allāh with Whose name nothing can harm on earth or in heaven, and He is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing”

:: Being positive and having an optimistic outlook ::
Always have a positive outlook regardless of the situation you’re in, this is what our Prophet Muhammad (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) taught us, when he told us.

Amazing is the affair of the believer, verily all of his affairs are good and this is not for no one except the believer. If something of good/happiness befalls him, he is grateful and that is good for him. If something of harm befalls him, he is patient and that is good for him.” He also said:
‎لَا طِيَرَةَ وَخَيْرُهَا الْفَأْلُ “There are no omens, but the best of it is optimism”
When we look through the seerah we find many examples of the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) being optimistic event though he was in a dire situation.

The Muslims in the battle of Ahzāb were surrounded by the enemy from every direction, they were in a state of loss, the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) commanded them to build a trench around the city of Madinah to protect themselves, as they were digging the trench they came across a huge rock and struggled to break it.

The Prophet took the sledgehammer from Salman al-Farisi. He struck the rock saying, “Bismillah”. One third of the rock broke. He said, “Allahu Akbar! I was given the keys of Damascus”. He struck it again and more broke and he said “I was given the keys of Persia” and he did so the third time until he had broken it and said “I was given the keys of Yemen!”
At a time when morale was low, the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) remained optimistic. The companions were astounded thinking that they under siege with no way out, yet the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) was talking about conquering Damascus, Persia, and Yemen! How true was the Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) when eventually these lands were conquered, optimism in the face of adversity, and optimism in the face of pessimism.

We should also not blame others or ridicule them because they are from a certain country or they have come from a part of the world that has been affected by the virus.
Unfortunately, we have seen physical attacks on people, racist remarks made, and people making a joke and mocking the situation people are in.

Conclusion
The new coronavirus is a reminder to us all of our weak state. Regardless of our social standing and our financial position, we are helpless.
Allāh says: ‎وَخُلِقَ الْإِنْسَانُ ضَعِيفًا “Mankind was created weak”
Situations like this remind us to turn back to Allāh. Allāh controls everything and he is the one that can relieve us from our difficulties, we must return to Allāh and seek refuge in him and ask his protection.

Keep your home clean and your family safe from COVID-19 virus and other germs and bacteria.

* Know that sanitizing is not the same as disinfecting. Sanitizing (reduces the risk of illness by killing 99.9% of germs) usually takes less time sometimes just 30 or 60 seconds while disinfecting (killing 99.999% of germs) can take anywhere up to 10 minutes, depending on the product.

* Check the label for how long hard, non-porous surfaces must stay wet for the most effective germ killing. Because liquids evaporate, this may require you to apply the product multiple times.

* No product can adequately sanitize or disinfect a dirty surface, so make sure you clean even with plain soap and water before you disinfect.

:: Will alcohol disinfect surfaces ::
:: NOTE :: ALWYS READ PRODUCT LABEL :: WEAR NEW FACE MASK AND HAND GLOVES WHILE CLEANIG ::

Isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant against many pathogens, including coronavirus, as long as the concentration is 70%. Most rubbing alcohols are 70% isopropyl alcohol, but concentrations can range from 60-99%. For killing coronavirus quickly on surfaces, 70% is best :-

Germs are hiding in more places than you think. With coronavirus (COVID-19) on everyone's mind, we're all much more conscious and diligent about killing germs on the things we touch daily, like computers, phones, counters, doorknobs and faucet levers. But there are other household items that you use regularly and other places you touch frequently where germs can lurk and that you may not think to clean. Some need just washing, others can be sanitized or disinfected, but all could benefit from a little more attention at this crucial time.

We're not saying that coronavirus can live on all your household surfaces or that it can be transmitted this way, but in an effort to keep your family healthy overall, it's smart to ramp up your cleaning routine now, especially when family members are spending more time at home.

:: How often should you be cleaning ::
If no one in the house is sick, there's no need to go crazy. Depending on the size of your household and how often everyone goes in and out, every other day or two to three times a week should be adequate for cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting highly-touched surfaces.
If someone in your house is ill, it's recommended to keep them isolated and to clean surfaces and surroundings daily. Before you get cleaning, remember to check the labels on your disinfectants. "Sanitizing" significantly reduces the number of germs and can take a fraction of the time of disinfecting, which kills more germs than sanitizing does. Disinfecting can up to 10 minutes, so be sure you know how to use your products correctly.

What else you should know about cleaning your home right now

* Regular soap and water cleans germs away and cuts down the quantity of germs, which also reduces the chance of infection. But to actually kill germs, you also must sanitize or disinfect surfaces after cleaning them.

* Never combine disinfecting or any cleaning products and open the window or ventilate a room if fumes become bothersome.

* Soft surfaces are porous and will never fully reach the level of germ kill required to be fully disinfected. Some antibacterial sprays can sanitize soft surfaces, like pillows and plush toys.

* Test surfaces for safety in a hidden spot before using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any disinfectant on a surface, especially a delicate one. On food contact surfaces, rinse with clear water and dry after disinfecting, unless the product label specifically says it's not necessary.

:: Can vinegar kill germs ::
No. Vinegar or vinegar-based alternative cleaning products) should not be used to disinfect or sanitize. Vinegar-containing cleaning products can be a good in some instances, but vinegar is not a disinfectant and is ineffective against most bacteria and viruses it does not kill the flu or coronavirus.
Undiluted white vinegar may work on some limited types of bacteria, but it's not the best way to get surfaces germ-free. (Besides, coronavirus is a virus, not a bacteria.)

How can cleaning supplies, household products affect health
Many cleaning supplies or household products can irritate the eyes or throat, or cause headaches and other health problems, including cancer. Some products release dangerous chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Other harmful ingredients include ammonia and bleach. Even natural fragrances such as citrus can react to produce dangerous pollutants indoors. VOCs and other chemicals released when using cleaning supplies contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergic reactions and headaches. Studies are underway to assess how these chemicals affect people who have asthma and other respiratory illnesses.1 However, past studies link exposure to chemicals from cleaning supplies to occupational asthma and other respiratory illnesses.2,3
Cleaning supplies and household products containing VOCs and other toxic substances can include, but are not limited to:

* Aerosol spray products, including health, beauty and cleaning products;
* Air fresheners :
* Chlorine bleach :
* Detergent and dishwashing liquid:
* Dry cleaning chemicals:
* Rug and upholstery cleaners:
* Furniture and floor polish; and
* Oven cleaners.1,2
Never mix bleach or any bleach containing product with any cleaner containing ammonia. The gases created from this combination can lead to chronic breathing problems and even death.2 Recent research has found that even natural fragrances in cleaning products, particularly in air fresheners, may react with high levels of ozone from indoor sources (for example, from some air cleaning devices)or from outdoor air to form formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, and dangerous fine particles indoors.5,6 Ozone is a harmful, but invisible, gas that worsens asthma and other lung diseases. Particles are also common air pollutants that can worsen asthma and other lung diseases and risk heart attacks and stroke. Both ozone and particles can be life-threatening.

How can you prevent harm from cleaning and household products
Read all labels on cleaning supplies and household products before you buy them.

Choose products that do not contain or have reduced amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants and flammable ingredients. Avoid using air fresheners altogether.

Manufacturers are not obligated by U.S. law to list all ingredients in consumer products.
Products that are labeled "green" do not necessarily mean they are safer. Do a little research on the product from a reliable source. For example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has a list of products that meet its Safer Choice requirements for cleaning and other needs.
They include cleaning products for home and vehicles. As a safer cleaning alternative, warm water and soap often will do the trick, especially at home. Baking soda is good for scrubbing. A mix of vinegar and water can clean glass. When using cleaning or household products, keep the area well ventilated. Open windows and doors. Never use cleaning products in a small, enclosed space.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation
:: What is UV radiation ::
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun and man-made sources like tanning beds and welding torches.

Radiation is the emission (sending out) of energy from any source. There are many types of radiation, ranging from very high-energy (high-frequency) radiation – like x-rays and gamma rays – to very low-energy (low-frequency) radiation – like radio waves. UV rays are in the middle of this spectrum. They have more energy than visible light, but not as much as x-rays.

There are also different types of UV rays, based on how much energy they have. Higher-energy UV rays are a form of ionizing radiation. This means they have enough energy to remove an electron from (ionize) an atom or molecule. Ionizing radiation can damage the DNA (genes) in cells, which in turn may lead to cancer. But even the highest-energy UV rays don’t have enough energy to penetrate deeply into the body, so their main effect is on the skin.

UV radiation is divided into 3 main groups:
* UVA rays have the least energy among UV rays. These rays can cause skin cells to age and can cause some indirect damage to cells’ DNA. UVA rays are mainly linked to long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, but they are also thought to play a role in some skin cancers.

* UVB rays have slightly more energy than UVA rays. They can damage the DNA in skin cells directly, and are the main rays that cause sunburns. They are also thought to cause most skin cancers.

* UVC rays have more energy than the other types of UV rays. Fortunately, because of this, they react with ozone high in our atmosphere and don’t reach the ground, so they are not normally a risk factor for skin cancer. But UVC rays can also come from some man-made sources, such as arc welding torches, mercury lamps, and UV sanitizing bulbs used to kill bacteria and other germs (such as in water, air, food, or on surfaces).

:: How are people exposed to UV radiation ::

:: Sunlight ::
Sunlight is the main source of UV radiation, even though UV rays make up only a small portion of the sun’s rays. Different types of UV rays reach the ground in different amounts. About 95% of the UV rays from the sun that reach the ground are UVA rays, with the remaining 5% being UVB rays.

The strength of the UV rays reaching the ground depends on a number of factors, such as:
* Time of day: UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
* Season of the year: UV rays are stronger during spring and summer months. This is less of a factor near the equator.
* Distance from the equator (latitude): UV exposure goes down as you get farther from the equator.
* Altitude: More UV rays reach the ground at higher elevations.
* Clouds: The effect of clouds can vary, but what’s important to know is that UV rays can get through to the ground, even on a cloudy day.
* Reflection off surfaces: UV rays can bounce off surfaces like water, sand, snow, pavement, or even grass, leading to an increase in UV exposure.
* Contents of the air: Ozone in the upper atmosphere, for example, filters out some UV radiation.
* The amount of UV exposure a person gets depends on the strength of the rays, the length of time the skin is exposed, and whether the skin is protected with clothing or sunscreen.

:: Man-made sources of UV rays ::
People can also be exposed to man-made sources of UV rays. These include:
* Sunlamps and sunbeds (tanning beds and booths): The amount and type of UV radiation someone is exposed to from a tanning bed (or booth) depends on the specific lamps used in the bed, how long a person stays in the bed, and how many times the person uses it. Most modern UV tanning beds emit mostly UVA rays, with the rest being UVB.
* Phototherapy (UV therapy): Some skin problems (such as psoriasis) are helped by treatment with UV light. For a treatment known as PUVA, a drug called a psoralen is given first. The drug collects in the skin and makes it more sensitive to UV. Then the patient is treated with UVA radiation. Another treatment option is the use of UVB alone (without a drug).
* Black-light lamps: These lamps use bulbs that give off UV rays (mostly UVA). The bulb also gives off some visible light, but it has a filter that blocks most of that out while letting the UV rays through. These bulbs have a purple glow and are used to view fluorescent material. Bug-zapping insect traps also use “black light” that gives off some UV rays, but the bulbs use a different filter that causes them to glow blue.
* Mercury-vapor lamps: Mercury-vapor lamps can be used to light large public areas such as streets or gyms. They do not expose people to UV rays if they are working properly. They are actually made up of 2 bulbs: an inner bulb that emits light and UV rays, and an outer bulb that filters out the UV. UV exposure can only occur if the outer bulb is broken. Some mercury-vapor lamps are designed to turn themselves off when the outer bulb breaks. The ones that don’t have this feature are only supposed to be installed behind a protective layer or in areas where people wouldn’t be exposed if part of the bulb breaks.
* High-pressure xenon and xenon-mercury arc lamps, plasma torches, and welding arcs: Xenon and xenon-mercury arc lamps are used as sources of light and UV rays for many things, such as UV “curing” (of inks, coatings, etc.), disinfection, to simulate sunlight (to test solar panels, for example), and even in some car headlights. Most of these, along with plasma torches and welding arcs, are mainly of concern in terms of workplace UV exposure.
:: Does UV radiation cause cancer ::
Most skin cancers are a result of exposure to the UV rays in sunlight. Both basal cell and squamous cell cancers (the most common types of skin cancer) tend to be found on sun-exposed parts of the body, and their occurrence is typically related to lifetime sun exposure. The risk of melanoma, a more serious but less common type of skin cancer, is also related to sun exposure, although perhaps not as strongly. Skin cancer has also been linked to exposure to some man-made sources of UV rays.

:: What do studies show ::
Many studies have found that basal and squamous cell skin cancers are linked to certain behaviors that put people in the sun, as well as a number of markers of sun exposure, such as:
* Spending time in the sun for recreation (including going to the beach)
* Spending a lot of time in the sun in a swimsuit
* Living in an area that gets a lot of sunlight
* Having had serious sunburns in the past (with more sunburns linked to a higher risk)
* Having signs of sun damage to the skin, such as liver spots, actinic keratoses (rough skin patches that can be precancerous), and solar elastosis (thickened, dry, wrinkled skin caused by sun exposure) on the neck Studies have also found links between certain behaviors and markers of sun exposure and melanoma of the skin, including:

* Activities that lead to “intermittent sun exposure,” like sunbathing, water sports, and taking vacations in sunny places
* Previous sunburns
* Signs of sun damage to the skin, such as liver spots, actinic keratoses, and solar elastosis:

Because UV rays don’t penetrate deeply into the body, they wouldn’t be expected to cause cancer in internal organs, and most research has not found such links. However, some studies have shown possible links to some other cancers, including Merkel cell carcinoma (a less common type of skin cancer) and melanoma of the eye.

Studies have found that people who use tanning beds (or booths) have a higher risk of skin cancer, including melanoma and squamous and basal cell skin cancers. The risk of melanoma is higher if the person started indoor tanning before age 30 or 35, and the risk of basal and squamous cell skin cancer is higher if indoor tanning started before age 25.

:: What do expert agencies say ::
In general, the American Cancer Society does not determine if something causes cancer (that is, if it is a carcinogen), but we do look to other respected organizations for help with this. Based on the available evidence, several expert agencies have evaluated the cancer-causing nature of UV radiation.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is part of the World Health Organization (WHO). One of its major goals is to identify causes of cancer. Based on the available data, IARC has made the following determinations:

* Solar radiation is carcinogenic to humans. *Use of UV-emitting tanning devices is carcinogenic to humans.
* UV radiation (including UVA, UVB, and UVC) is carcinogenic to humans.
* Solar radiation is known to be a human carcinogen.
* Exposure to sunlamps or sunbeds is known to be a human carcinogen.
* Broad-spectrum UV radiation is known to be a human carcinogen.
*UVA radiation is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.
*UVB radiation is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.
*UVC radiation is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.
:: What about tanning beds ::
Some people think that getting UV rays from tanning beds is a safe way to get a tan, but this isn’t true.
* Contraindication: This product is contraindicated for use on persons under the age of 18 years.
* Contraindication: This product must not be used if skin lesions or open wounds are present.
* Warning: This product should not be used on individuals who have had skin cancer or have a family history of skin cancer.
* Warning: Persons repeatedly exposed to UV radiation should be regularly evaluated for skin cancer.

:: Are there any other health issues related to UV radiation ::
In addition to skin cancer, exposure to UV rays can cause other health problems:
* UV rays, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds, can cause sunburn. * Exposure to UV rays can cause premature aging of the skin and signs of sun damage such as wrinkles, leathery skin, liver spots, actinic keratosis, and solar elastosis.
* UV rays can also cause eye problems. They can cause the cornea (on the front of the eye) to become inflamed or burned. They can also lead to the formation of cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye) and pterygium (tissue growth on the surface of the eye), both of which can impair vision.
* Exposure to UV rays can also weaken the immune system, so that the body has a harder time fending off infections. This can lead to problems such as reactivation of herpes triggered by exposure to the sun or other sources of UV rays. It can also cause vaccines to be less effective.
* Some people are more sensitive to the damaging effects of UV radiation. Some medications can also make you more sensitive to UV radiation, making you more likely to get sunburned. And certain medical conditions can be made worse by UV radiation.

:: UV rays and vitamin D ::
Your skin makes vitamin D naturally when it is exposed to UV rays from the sun. How much vitamin D you make depends on many things, including how old you are, how dark your skin is, and how strong the sunlight is where you live.
Vitamin D has many health benefits. It might even help lower the risk of some cancers. At this time, doctors aren’t sure what the optimal level of vitamin D is, but a lot of research is being done in this area.
Whenever possible, it’s better to get vitamin D from your diet or vitamin supplements rather than from exposure to UV rays. Dietary sources and vitamin supplements do not increase skin cancer risk, and are typically more reliable ways to get the amount you need.

:: Can I avoid exposure to UV radiation ::

:: UV rays in sunlight ::
It’s not possible (or healthy) to avoid sunlight completely, but there are ways to help ensure you’re not getting too much sun:
* If you’re going to be outside, simply staying in the shade, especially during midday hours, is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure from sunlight.
* Protect your skin with clothing that covers your arms and legs.
* Wear a hat to protect your head, face, and neck.
* Wear sunglasses that block UV rays to protect your eyes and the skin around them. *Use sunscreen to help protect skin that isn’t covered with clothing.

:: Protect yourself from the sun ::
Some people think about sun protection only when they spend a day at the lake, beach, or pool. But sun exposure adds up day after day, and it happens every time you are in the sun. Even though sunlight is the main source of UV rays, you don’t have to avoid the sun completely.
And it would be unwise to stay inside if it would keep you from being active, because physical activity is important for good health.

But getting too much sun can be harmful. There are some simple steps you can take to limit your exposure to UV rays. Simply staying in the shade is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure. If you are going to be in the sun, “Slip! Slop! Slap!® and Wrap” is a catchphrase that can help you remember some of the key steps you can take to protect yourself from UV rays:

Slip on a shirt.
Slop on sunscreen.
Slap on a hat.
Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them.

:: Seek shade ::
An obvious but very important way to limit your exposure to UV light is to avoid being outdoors in direct sunlight too long. This is particularly important between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, when UV light is strongest. If you aren't sure how strong the sun’s rays are, use the shadow test: if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are the strongest, and it’s important to protect yourself.

UV rays reach the ground all year, even on cloudy or hazy days, but the strength of UV rays can vary, based on many factors (see above). Be especially careful on the beach or in areas with snow because sand, water, and snow reflect sunlight, increasing the amount of UV radiation you get. UV rays can also reach below the water’s surface, so you can still get a burn even if you’re in the water and feeling cool.

Some UV rays can also pass through windows. Typical car, home, and office windows block most UVB rays but a smaller portion of UVA rays, so even if you don’t feel you’re getting burned your skin may still get some damage. Tinted windows help block more UVA rays, but this depends on the type of tinting. (If you do have your car windows tinted, check local laws, as some states regulate this.) UV radiation that comes through windows probably doesn’t pose a great risk to most people unless they spend long periods of time close to a window that gets direct sunlight.

:: Protect your skin with clothing ::
When you are out in the sun, wear clothing to cover your skin. Clothes provide different levels of UV protection. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are the most protective. Dark colors generally provide more protection than light colors. A tightly woven fabric protects better than loosely woven clothing.

Dry fabric is generally more protective than wet fabric. Be aware that covering up doesn’t block out all UV rays. If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through, too. Many companies now make clothing that’s lightweight, comfortable, and protects against UV rays even when wet. It tends to be more tightly woven, and some have special coatings to help absorb UV rays. These sun-protective clothes may have a label listing the UV protection factor (UPF) value (the level of protection the garment provides from the sun’s UV rays, on a scale from 15 to 50+). The higher the UPF, the higher the protection from UV rays.

Some products, which are used like laundry detergents in a washing machine, can increase the UPF value of clothes you already own. They add a layer of UV protection to your clothes without changing the color or texture. This can be useful, but it’s not exactly clear how much it adds to protecting you from UV rays, so it’s still important to follow the other steps listed here.

:: Use sunscreen ::
Sunscreen is a product that you put on your skin to protect it from the sun’s UV rays. But it’s important to know that sunscreen is just a filter – it does not block all UV rays. Sunscreen should not be used as a way to prolong your time in the sun. Even with proper sunscreen use, some UV rays still get through. Because of this, sunscreen should not be thought of as your first line of defense.

Consider sunscreen as one part of your skin cancer protection plan, especially if staying in the shade and wearing protective clothing aren’t available as your first options.
Sunscreens are available in many forms lotions, creams, ointments, gels, sprays, wipes, and lip balms, to name a few. Some cosmetics, such as moisturizers, lipsticks, and foundations, are considered sunscreen products if they have sunscreen.

Some makeup contains sunscreen, but you have to check the label – makeup, including lipstick, without sunscreen does not provide sun protection.

:: What are vaccines ::
Vaccines are products that protect people against many diseases that can be very dangerous and even deadly. Different than most medicines that treat or cure diseases, vaccines prevent you from getting sick with the disease in the first place. You will see the terms vaccines, vaccinations, and immunizations used across this site. The following is a simple guide to help you remember their definitions:

* Vaccines are products that produce immunity to a specific disease. Most vaccines are given by injection (needle), but some are given orally (by mouth) or nasally (sprayed into the nose).
* “Researchers have been working on a new vaccine against Zika virus.”
* Vaccination is the act of introducing a vaccine into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease.
* “I am taking my child to get vaccinated against HPV."
* Immunization is the process by which a person or animal becomes protected against a disease.
This term is often used interchangeably with vaccination. “Vaccines cause immunization."

:: What Vaccines Do and Why ::
Vaccination or immunization is a process we use to protect people from potentially deadly diseases. Diseases that used to kill millions of people each year can now be prevented through vaccination.2

When you get a vaccine or immunization, the body "sees" the germs that cause the disease and develops protective antibodies. Once your body contains these antibodies, it will be able to fight off the germs if you are ever exposed to them and help prevent you from getting sick. Sometimes this immunity wears off over time, which means additional vaccines may be needed later in life.

When enough people in a community are vaccinated, it provides protection to everyone, even those that have not been vaccinated, through a process called community immunity or "herd immunity." If the majority of people in a community are immune to a disease through immunization, it is unlikely to spread and affect anyone in the community like it would if people were not vaccinated. This is how we have managed to eradicate or nearly eradicate several diseases that used to claim the lives of millions of people each year.3 When diseases aren't able to spread and make people sick, they die out.

:: What does immunity mean ::
Immunity is protection from a disease. If you are immune to a disease, you can be exposed to it without becoming sick.
:: What Is the Difference Between Immunization and Vaccination ::
The terms immunization, vaccination, and inoculation are often used interchangeably, but are they really the same thing?

:: Immunity and Immunization ::
immunization is the process whereby a person is made immune or resistant to an infectious disease, typically by the administration of a vaccine. Vaccines stimulate the body’s own immune system to protect the person against subsequent infection or disease."

A person becomes immune to a disease when the body has been exposed to it either through illness or vaccination. The immune system develops antibodies to the disease so that it cannot make you sick again.

Immunization describes the actual changes your body goes through after receiving a vaccine.

:: Available vaccines ::
* Cholera
* Dengue
* Diphtheria
* Hepatitis A
* Hepatitis B
* Hepatitis E
* Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
* Human papillomavirus (HPV)
* Influenza
* Japanese encephalitis
* Malaria
* Measles
* Meningococcal meningitis
* Mumps
* Pertussis
* Pneumococcal disease
* Poliomyelitis
* Rabies
* Rotavirus
* Rubella
* Tetanus
* Tick-borne encephalitis
* Tuberculosis
* Typhoid
* Varicella
* Yellow Fever

:: Pipeline vaccines ::
Campylobacter jejuni
Chagas Disease
Chikungunya
Dengue
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli
Enterovirus 71 (EV71)
Group B Streptococcus (GBS)
Herpes Simplex Virus
HIV-1
Human Hookworm Disease
Leishmaniasis Disease
Nipah Virus
Nontyphoidal Salmonella Disease
Norovirus
Paratyphoid fever
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Schistosomiasis Disease
Shigella
Staphylococcus aureus
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Streptococcus pyrogenes
Universal Influenza Vaccine
COVID-19

:: FROM UK NHS DOCTORS ::
Coronavirus alert: Rare syndrome seen in UK children.
NHS doctors have been warned to look out for a rare but dangerous reaction in children that may be linked to coronavirus infection. An urgent alert sent out to GPs said that intensive care departments in London and other parts of the UK have been treating severely sick children with unusual symptoms. This includes "multi-system inflammation" with flu-like symptoms. Some, but not all, tested positive for coronavirus.

It is unclear how many children have experienced the reaction, although the numbers will be low.

NHS England medical director Stephen Powis said they had become aware of reports of rare, severe illness in children. "It's only in the last few days that we have seen those reports. We have asked our experts to look into this as a matter of urgency."

*This is the moment of maximum risk
How long does it take to recover from coronavirus?

The alert, issued by NHS England, said there was "a growing concern" that a coronavirus-related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK or that there may be another, as yet unidentified, infection linked to these cases.

These young patients of varying ages were extremely ill. They had similar features to toxic shock syndrome, which can include a high temperature, low blood pressure, a rash and difficulty breathing.

Some also had gastrointestinal symptoms - tummy pain, vomiting or diarrhoea - and inflammation of the heart, as well as abnormal blood test results.

Experts say these are the signs you can see when the body becomes overwhelmed as it tries to fight off an infection. The alert advises these cases need urgent treatment.
But experts stress that very few children become severely ill with coronavirus - evidence from around the world suggests they are the population least affected by the disease.

A muslim consultant in Paediatric Intensive Care in Cambridge, said colleagues in Spain and Italy had been reporting similar cases: "Some of the children have presented with a septic shock type illness and rashes - the kind of presentation we would expect to see in toxic shock syndrome and Kawasaki disease (which affects blood vessels and the heart).
"Overall, children seem to be more resilient to serious lung infection following exposure to coronavirus, and the numbers admitted to intensive care units are relatively low."
NHS England said it knew of fewer than 20 such cases in the country where an association has been noted by clinicians. Investigations will continue, but no link has yet been established, said a spokesman. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) said parents should be reassured by this, but if they are concerned about their children's health for any reason, they should seek help from a health professional.

Prof Simon Kenny, NHS national clinical director for children and young people, said: "The advice to parents remains the same: if you are worried about your child for whatever reason, contact NHS 111 or your family doctor for urgent advice, or 999 in an emergency, and if a professional tells you to go to hospital, please go to hospital."

When to seek help Whilst coronavirus is infectious to children, it is rarely serious. If your child is unwell it is likely to be a non-coronavirus illness, rather than coronavirus itself.

The RCPCH advises parents seek urgent help (call 999 or go to A&E) if their child is:

* Becoming pale, mottled and feeling abnormally cold to the touch
* Has pauses in their breathing (apnoeas), has an irregular breathing pattern or starts grunting
* Has severe difficulty in breathing becoming agitated or unresponsive
* Is going blue round the lips
* Has a fit/seizure
* Becomes extremely distressed (crying inconsolably despite distraction), confused, very lethargic (difficult to wake) or unresponsive
* Develops a rash that does not disappear with pressure (the 'Glass test')
* Has testicular pain, especially in teenage boys.

Coronavirus: Ebola drug "remdesivir" given 'emergency approval' to treat COVID-19 in the US. The drug has been shown to shorten the recovery time for patients suffering from more severe forms of the virus. Remdesivir is an antiviral drug that was originally developed to tackle ebola. A government-sponsored study has showed that remdesivir shortened recovery time by 31% - about four days on average - for patients in hospital with the virus. The study of 1,063 patients is the largest of remdesivir, which belongs to Gilead Sciences.

It found that those given the drug were able to leave hospital in 11 days on average, compared with 15 days for the control group. It is not yet clear whether remdesivir is preventing COVID-19 deaths but it is the first drug to show promise in fighting COVID-19.
Coronavirus CAN enter the body through the eyes: Scientists find eye cells are a prime target for the deadly virus to attach to.
Scientists have claimed the coronavirus can enter the body through the eyes after finding they contain a protein used by the infection to bind to cells.

The coronavirus - scientifically called SARS-CoV-2 - latches onto ACE-2 receptors, known as the 'gateway' into cells inside body. These receptors are found in the respiratory tract and the lungs, which is where the virus first infiltrates cells, as well as other organs. A team led by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have now found the eyes produce ACE-2, making them a target for the virus.
It means if droplets from an infected person's sneeze or cough were to land on the surface of the eye, the virus could begin infiltrating cells there.

It may explain why some patients have suffered conjunctivitis - an inflammation of the eye which causes it to become red and infected.

Not only could the virus enter the body through the eyes, but tears may serve as a spread of infection, scientists said.

Drug combination shows promise for treating COVID-19
New findings have shown that a triple antiviral drug combination holds promise for the treatment of COVID-19.

Results from a randomised trial for treating COVID-19 with a two week triple drug combination therapy that included interferon beta-1b, lopinavir–ritonavir and ribavirin, has shown the combination is safe and effective at reducing the duration of viral shedding than lopinavir–ritonavir alone in patients with mild to moderate illness.

These early but important findings, published in The Lancet, do not include severe cases of COVID-19, and the authors stress the need for larger phase 3 trials to examine the effectiveness of this triple combination in critically ill patients.

Triple combination therapy
Experience with influenza suggests that treating hospitalised patients with a combination of multiple antiviral drugs may be more effective than single drug treatments, and minimise the risk of antiviral resistance. The authors hypothesised that this could be a possible therapeutic approach for COVID-19, in which the viral load also peaks around the time of symptom onset.

Professor Kwok-Yung Yuen, from the University of Hong Kong who led the research, said: “Our trial demonstrates that early treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 with a triple combination of antiviral drugs may rapidly suppress the amount of virus in a patient’s body, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk to health-care workers by reducing the duration and quantity of viral shedding (when the virus is detectable and potentially transmissible). Furthermore, the treatment combination appeared safe and well tolerated by patients.
“Despite these encouraging findings, we must confirm in larger phase 3 trials that interferon beta-1b alone or in combination with other drugs is effective in patients with more severe illness (in whom the virus has had more time to replicate).”

Secondary outcomes in the new study suggest that clinical improvement and length of hospital stay may be significantly shorter in people treated with triple combination less than seven days after showing symptoms, compared to lopinavir-ritonavir alone.

Beta 1-b Previous research found that a combination of oral lopinavir-ritonavir, which is normally used to treat HIV, and ribavirin, an oral hepatitis C virus drug, significantly reduced respiratory failure and death in patients hospitalised with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) during the 2003 outbreak. Interferon beta-1b, which was developed to treat multiple sclerosis (MS), has been shown to reduce viral load and improve lung problems in animal studies of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus infection.

In the trial, all patients received standard care including ventilation support, dialysis support, antibiotics, and corticosteroids. The average number of days from symptom onset to start of study treatment was five days.

Treatment with the triple drug combination effectively suppressed viral load (with no detectable virus) within an average seven days of starting treatment, which was significantly shorter than the average 12 days in the control group, treated with lopinavir–ritonavir alone.

Secondary outcomes supported the findings, indicating that clinical improvement was significantly better in the triple combination group, with the triple therapy halving the time to complete alleviation of symptoms.

Co-author Dr Jenny Lo from Ruttonjee Hospital in Hong Kong said: “These findings suggest that interferon beta 1-b may be a key component of the combination treatment and is worth further investigation for the treatment of COVID-19.

“Interferons are naturally occurring proteins, produced in response to viral infection, and the hope is that interferon beta-1b will boost the body’s ability to fight SARS-CoV-2. Future phase 3 trials will soon confirm or refute the usefulness of this candidate drug as a backbone treatment for COVID-19.”

New antibody test ‘that’s 99% accurate’ was approved for use across Europe and now In UK From Switzerland.

The tests looks for the IgG protein the body produces when it has been infected by coronavirus which can stay in the body for months or possibly years.

The test can only be used by machines available in labs across the UK, and is not the same as the "pin-prick" test which experts are trying to develop to give people answers within minutes, at home. The tests could be help boost the Government's efforts to put in rigorous contact tracing.

A new disease which mainly affects children under five, and above is a cause the immune system to go into “overdrive”, causing fever, severe diarrhea, rashes and conjunctivitis. In many cases it inflame the walls of the arteries, affecting bloodflow to the heart and is potentially fatal is linked to Covid-19 related syndrome, several cases in Europe were detailed in a report published in the Lancet. Experts there reported that abdominal pain, gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiac inflammation were common to the cases.

GOOD FOR ONE CAN BE LEATHAL FOR OTHER
-: A Cheap generic steroid may significantly cuts Covid-19 mortality rates :-

Scientists hail breakthrough as dexamethasone found to reduce deaths by one-third in ventilated patients

UK scientists have hailed the biggest Covid-19 drug breakthrough to date after an Oxford university trial found a cheap and widely available generic steroid significantly reduced the risk of dying from coronavirus.

The drug, dexamethasone, was found to cut the death rate of the most seriously ill patients on ventilators by one-third, and by one-fifth in patients receiving oxygen, according to trial results announced on 16-06-2020.

“This is a statistically compelling result” with “instant global importance” said Martin Landray, an Oxford professor of medicine and epidemiology and deputy chief investigator of the so-called Recovery trial. “It works for the sickest patients, which is exactly what one would hope for.”

“It will save lives and it will do so at a remarkably low cost,” he added, estimating that up to 5,000 fewer people would have died from the virus in the UK alone if dexamethasone had been used from the start of the crisis.

The researchers running the Recovery trial, the world’s largest randomised trial of Covid-19 treatments, concluded two weeks ago that there was “no beneficial effect of hydroxychloroquine in patients hospitalised with Covid-19”.

With dexamethasone, however, they found that it prevented one in eight ventilated patient deaths and one in 25 deaths of patients requiring oxygen. The trial found no benefit among those who were not receiving ventilation or oxygen support. The drug reduced the total 28-day virus mortality rate by 17 per cent.

-: Steroids should be avoided in the treatment of the current novel coronavirus, experts have advised :-

Steroids are often used by doctors to reduce inflammation, which is present in the lungs of patients with novel coronavirus. Lung inflammation was observed during the SARS and MERS outbreaks, which were caused by coronaviruses.

However, steroids also impair the immune system's ability to fight viruses and other infections that often develop in patients with life-threatening illness. Experts say that, on balance, using the drugs could cause significant harm.

One retrospective study of critically-ill patients with MERS found that almost half of the people that received steroids needed additional treatments such as assistance in breathing, drugs to increase blood pressure, and a form of dialysis. Those given steroids were found to take longer to clear the virus from their bodies.

Other studies found that steroids caused harm in the SARS outbreak, with the virus still present in those who took the drugs up to three weeks after infection.

Guidance about steroids.
If you are already taking steroid tablets you should carry on taking them, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If you've been taking steroid tablets for four weeks or more, and you develop symptoms of COVID-19 talk to your GP or rheumatology team as soon as possible about your medication. They may tell you to stop taking some drugs, but the latest advice is that steroids should be continued if you have COVID-19. However, the dose you take and when during the day you need to take your tablets may need to be changed slightly. It’s important you talk to your doctor about this.

If you’re not currently taking steroids and you develop joint pain and swelling, your doctor should only start steroid tablets or give you a steroid injection if there are no other options for your condition. And in which case your doctor should give you the lowest possible dose of steroids for the shortest possible time.
It can be dangerous to suddenly stop taking steroids, as they can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you are taking steroid tablets you should carry a steroid alert card. It is important for a healthcare professional to know if you are on steroids and the dose you are taking, in case you suddenly become ill or have an accident.

:: Dexamethasone ::
Trade Names: Decadron, Dexasone, Diodex, Hexadrol, Maxidex

Other Names: dexamethasone sodium phosphate, dexamethasone acetate
Chemocare uses generic names in all descriptions of drugs. Decadron is the trade name for dexamethasone. Dexasone and diodex or hexadrol are other names for dexamethasone. In some cases, health care professionals may use the trade name decadron or other names dexasone or diodex or hexadrol when referring to the generic drug name dexamethasone.

Drug type: Dexamethasone has many uses in the treatment of cancer. It is classified as a glucocorticosteroid. (For more detail, see "How this drug works" section below).

What Dexamethasone Is Used For:

* As an anti-inflammatory medication. Dexamethasone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. It is used specifically to decrease swelling (edema), associated with tumors of the spine and brain, and to treat eye inflammation.
* To treat or prevent allergic reactions.
* As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions.
* As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
* To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs.
* Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems.
* Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).
Note: If a drug has been approved for one use, physicians sometimes elect to use this same drug for other problems if they believe it might be helpful.

How Dexamethasone Is Given:
* This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in a variety of tablet sizes. If you are on a daily dose of dexamethasone (usually less than 10 mg), and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. If you are on high doses of dexamethasone (20 mg or 40 mg per day for 4 days out of the month), and you miss your dose, contact your healthcare provider. You may be instructed to repeat the missed dose, and continue the medication.

* Take pills with food or after meals
* This medication may also be given by infusion into a vein (intravenously or IV)
* Dexamethasone eye drops are given to treat or prevent many eye conditions. The eye drops are most commonly given to patients with leukemia or lymphoma, to prevent inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis), if you are receiving high dose chemotherapy (usually Cytarabine [Ara-C]). The eye drops are given every six hours, in both eyes, and for at least 48 hours after the chemotherapy has completed. Do not stop taking these eye drops unless directed by your healthcare provider.

* You may be given dexamethasone as a lotion (topical) to treat skin disorders.
* The amount of dexamethasone you will receive depends on many factors, including your general health or other health problems, and the reason you are receiving this drug. Your doctor will determine your dosage and schedule.

Side Effects:
Important things to remember about the side effects of dexamethasone:

* Most people do not experience all of the side effects listed.
* Side effects are often predictable in terms of their onset and duration.
* Side effects are almost always reversible and will go away after treatment is complete.
* There are many options to help minimize or prevent side effects.

The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking dexamethasone:
* Increased appetite
* Irritability
* Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
* Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention)
* Heartburn
* Muscle weakness
* Impaired wound healing
* Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

The following are less common side effects (occurring in >10%) for patients receiving dexamethasone:

* Headaches
* Dizziness
* Mood swings
* Cataracts and bone thinning (with long-term use)

This list includes common and less common side effects for individuals taking dexamethasone. Side effects that are very rare, occurring in less than 10% of patients, are not listed here. However, you should always inform your health care provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

When to contact your doctor or health care provider:
Contact your health care provider immediately, day or night, if you should experience any of the following symptoms:

* Fever of 100.4° F (38° C), chills (possible signs of infection)
* If you feel an irregular or fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, or chest or jaw pain, seek emergency help and notify your healthcare provider
* If you become suddenly confused.
The following symptoms require medical attention, but are not emergency situations. Contact your health care provider within 24 hours of noticing any of the following:
* Extreme fatigue (unable to carry on self-care activities)
* Any unusual bleeding or bruising
* Black or tarry stools, or blood in your stools or urine
* Nausea (interferes with ability to eat and unrelieved with prescribed medications)
* Vomiting (vomiting more than 4-5 times in a 24-hour period)
* Dizziness or lightheadedness, feeling faint.
* Persistent headache
* Severe hot flashes or mood swings
* Inability to sleep (insomnia)
* Severe skeletal (bone) pain
* Difficult or painful urination; increased urination, or severe thirst
* Changes in vision, blurred vision, eye pain, enlarged pupils, discharge
* Any new rashes or changes in your skin
* Swelling of the feet or ankles. Sudden
weight gain (greater than 3 pounds a week)
* Swelling, redness and/or pain in one leg or arm and not the other
Always inform your health care provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Precautions:
* Before starting dexamethasone treatment, make sure you tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbal remedies, etc.) Do not take aspirin, or products containing aspirin unless your doctor specifically permits this.

* Do not receive any kind of immunization or vaccination without your doctor's approval while taking dexamethasone.

* If you have been on dexamethasone pills daily, for a long period of time, serious side effects may occur if you discontinue the medication abruptly. Do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dose of dexamethasone on your own.

* Inform your health care professional if you are pregnant or may be pregnant prior to starting this treatment. Pregnancy category C (use in pregnancy only when benefit to the mother outweighs risk to the fetus).

* For both men and women: Do not conceive a child (get pregnant) while taking dexamethasone. Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, are recommended. Discuss with your doctor when you may safely become pregnant or conceive a child after therapy.

* Do not breast feed while taking this medication.

Self-Care Tips:
* If you are on this medication for a long period of time, you may be more susceptible to infection. Wash your hands well, and report any symptoms of infection to your healthcare provider if noted.

* If you are given eye drops or eye ointment: You may be more sensitive to the light. Wearing sunglasses may help. It is normal to notice a little blurriness for a short time after the drops or ointment are placed in your eyes. Notify your healthcare provider with any changes in vision, blurriness, or eye pain.

* If you are given eye drops or eye ointment: Ask your healthcare provider if you may wear contact lenses. Contact lenses may absorb the medication for at least 15 minutes. Wash your hands well before putting eye drops, to decrease the chance of a bacterial infection in your eyes.

* If you are dexamethasone as a lotion (topical) to treat skin disorders: Do not apply to open areas of skin, or if you have open or weeping sores. Topical dexamethasone should not be used for a long time. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.

* Take this medication with food to lessen an upset stomach. Also take this medication early on in the day (before 12:00 noon, if possible), so you will be able to sleep better at night.

* If you have diabetes, this medication may increase your blood sugar levels. You may need more frequent monitoring.

* Drink 2 to 3 quarts of fluid every 24 hours, unless you were told to restrict your fluid intake, and maintain good nutrition.

* Avoid sun exposure. Wear SPF 15 (or higher) sun block and protective clothing.

* To reduce nausea, take anti-nausea medications as prescribed by your doctor, and eat small, frequent meals.

* In general, drinking alcoholic beverages should be avoided. You should also limit caffeine intake (colas, tea, coffee and chocolate, especially). These beverages may irritate your stomach.

* If you experience symptoms or side effects, especially if severe, be sure to discuss them with your health care team. They can prescribe medications and/or offer other suggestions that are effective in managing such problems.

Monitoring and Testing:
You will be checked regularly by your health care professional while you are taking dexamethasone, to monitor side effects and check your response to therapy. Periodic blood work to monitor your complete blood count (CBC) as well as the function of other organs (such as your kidneys and liver) will also be ordered by your doctor.

How Dexamethasone Works:
Corticosteroids are naturally produced by the adrenal gland in the body. Corticosteroids influence the functioning of most of the body's systems (heart, immune, muscles and bones, endocrine and nervous system). They exert a wide array of effects including effects on the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein and fats. They help to maintain balance of fluids and electrolytes.

Dexamethasone is classified as a corticosteroid (more precisely a glucocorticosteroid), and has many uses in the treatment of cancer.

One way that it works is to decrease inflammation (swelling). It does this by preventing infection- fighting white blood cells (polymorphonuclear leukocytes) from traveling to the area of swelling in your body. (This is why you are more prone to infection while taking steroids).

Taking advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of the medication, corticosteroids are used to decrease the swelling around tumors. For example, by decreasing swelling around tumors in the spine, brain, or bone, it can decrease the pressure of the tumor on nerve endings and relieve pain or other symptoms caused by the pressing tumor.

Another way this drug works is by altering the body's normal immune system responses. Corticosteroids are used to treat certain conditions that affect the immune system such as aplastic anemia (AA), Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP), Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (TTP), or hemolytic anemia.

In addition, it is thought that corticosteroids may help in the treatment of patients with blood disorders, such as multiple myeloma.

Corticosteroids may work by causing programmed cell death (apoptosis) of certain cells, which may help to fight your disease.
Dexamethasone is also used in the short-term treatment of nausea caused by chemotherapy. How it does this is not fully understood. It also has been used to stimulate appetite for patients with severe appetite problems.

Corticosteroids are used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Note: We strongly encourage you to talk with your health care professional about your specific medical condition and treatments. The information contained in this website is meant to be helpful and educational, but is not a substitute for medical advice.

The Omicron variant is a variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. It was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from South Africa on 24 November 2021. On 26 November 2021, the WHO designated it as a variant of concern and named it "Omicron", the fifteenth letter in the Greek alphabet.

 

Omicron variant and other major or previous variants of concern of SARS-CoV-2 depicted in a tree scaled radially by genetic distance, derived from Nextstrain on 1 December 2021

The variant has an unusually large number of mutations, several of which are novel and a significant number of which affect the spike protein targeted by most COVID-19 vaccines at the time of discovering the Omicron variant. This level of variation has led to concerns regarding its transmissibility, immune system evasion, and vaccine resistance, despite initial reports indicating that the variant causes less serious disease than previous strains. The variant was quickly designated as being "of concern", and travel restrictions were introduced by several countries in an attempt to slow its international spread.

The new variant was first detected on 22 November 2021 in laboratories in Botswana and South Africa based on samples collected 11–16 November, the first known sample was collected in the latter country on 8 December. In other continents, the first known cases were a person arriving in Hong Kong from South Africa via Qatar on 11 November and another person who arrived in Belgium from Egypt via Turkey on the same date. As of 16 December 2021, the variant has been confirmed in more than 80 countries and in all continents except Antarctica.

 

Defining mutations in the

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant

Gene	Amino acid
ORF1ab	nsp3: K38R
	nsp3: V1069I
	nsp3: Δ1265
	nsp3: L1266I
	nsp3: A1892T
	nsp4: T492I
	nsp5: P132H
	nsp6: Δ105-107
	nsp6: A189V
	nsp12: P323L
	nsp14: I42V
Spike	A67V
	Δ69-70
	T95I
	G142D,
	Δ143-145
	Δ211
	L212I
	ins214EPE
	G339D
	S371L
	S373P
	S375F
	K417N
	N440K
	G446S
	S477N
	T478K
	E484A
	Q493R
	G496S
	Q498R
	N501Y
	Y505H
	T547K
	D614G
	H655Y
	N679K
	P681H
	N764K
	D796Y
	N856K
	Q954H
	N969K
	L981F
E	T9I
M	D3G
	Q19E
	A63T
N	P13L
	Δ31-33
	R203K
	G204R
Sources: UK Health Security Agency CoVariants

 

The variant has many mutations, some of which have concerned scientists. The Omicron variant has a total of 60 mutations compared to the original Wuhan variant: 50 nonsynonymous mutations, 8 synonymous mutations, and 2 non-coding mutations. Thirty-two mutations affect the spike protein, the main antigenic target of antibodies generated by infections and of many vaccines widely administered. Many of those mutations had not been observed in other strains. The variant is characterised by 30 amino acid changes, three small deletions, and one small insertion in the spike protein compared with the original virus, of which 15 are located in the receptor-binding domain (residues 319–541). It also carries a number of changes and deletions in other genomic regions. Additionally, the variant has three mutations at the furin cleavage site. The furin cleavage site increases SARS-CoV-2 infectivity. The mutations by genomic region are the following:

 

• Spike protein: A67V, Δ69-70, T95I, G142D, Δ143-145, Δ211, L212I, ins214EPE, G339D, S371L, S373P, S375F, K417N, N440K, G446S, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, G496S, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, T547K, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, N856K, Q954H, N969K, L981F
• Half (15) of these 30 changes are located in the receptor binding domain-RBD (residues 319–541)
• ORF1ab
• nsp3: K38R, V1069I, Δ1265, L1266I, A1892T
• nsp4: T492I
• nsp5: P132H
• nsp6: Δ105-107, A189V
• nsp12: P323L
• nsp14: I42V
• Envelope protein: T9I
• Membrane protein: D3G, Q19E, A63T
• Nucleocapsid protein: P13L, Δ31-33, R203K, G204R

 

A link with HIV infection may explain a large number of mutations in the sequence of the Omicron variant. Indeed, in order to be affected by such a high number of mutations, the virus must have been able to evolve a long time without killing its host, nor being eliminated. One such situation occurs in people with a weakened immune system but receiving enough medical care to survive. This is the case in HIV patients in South Africa, who represent more than 20% of the population. Due to lack of access to clinics, fear of stigmatisation and disrupted healthcare, millions living with HIV in the region are not on effective HIV therapy. HIV prevention could be key to reducing the risk that uncontrolled HIV is driving the emergence of Covid variants.

 

Sublineages and stealth variant

Researchers have established the existence of three sublineages of Omicron. The 'standard' sublineage is now referred to as BA.1 /B.1.1.529.1, and the two other sublineages are known as BA.2 /B.1.1.529.2 and BA.3 /B.1.1.529.3.

All three can can be detected by full sequencing, but BA.2 has been nicknamed 'Stealth Omicron' because it differs from the 'standard' variety by not having the characteristic SGTF-causing deletion (Δ69-70) by which many PCR tests are able to detect a case as an Omicron, or Alpha, variant. Thus, countries that primarly rely on SGTF for detection may overlook BA.2. Some countries, including Denmark, use a variant qPCR that tests for several mutations, including Δ69-70, E484K, L452R and N501Y. It can also distinguish Delta (the heavily dominant variant worldwide, prior to the spread of Omicron), which has L452R but not N501Y, and all Omicron sublineages, which have N501Y but not L452R. As of 19 December 2021, BA.2 appears to be very rare with about twenty known cases from half a dozen countries. The third sublineage, BA.3, is also very rare and it does not represent the same potential problem in detection since it has the SGTF deletion (Δ69-70), similar to BA.1.

 

Signs and symptoms

Main article: Symptoms of COVID-19

No unusual symptoms had been associated with the variant as of 26 November 2021, and, as with other variants, some individuals are asymptomatic. Angelique Coetzee, chair of the South African Medical Association, said she had first encountered the variant in patients who had fatigue, aches and pains, but no cough or change in sense of smell or taste.

British epidemiologist Tim Spector said in mid-December 2021 that the majority of symptoms of the Omicron variant were the same as a common cold, including headaches, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue and sneezing, so that people with cold symptoms should take a test. "Things like fever, cough and loss of smell are now in the minority of symptoms we are seeing. Most people don’t have classic symptoms." People with cold symptoms in London (where Covid was spreading rapidly) are "far more likely" to have Covid than a cold.

 

Characteristics

Many of the mutations to the spike protein are present in other variants of concern and are related to increased infectivity and antibody evasion. Computational modeling suggests that the variant may also escape cell-mediated immunity. On 26 November, the ECDC wrote that an evaluation of the neutralizing capacity of convalescent sera and of vaccines is urgently needed to assess possible immune escape, saying these data are expected within two to three weeks.

Contagiousness

It was not known in November 2021 how the variant would spread in populations with high levels of immunity. It was also not known if the omicron variant causes a milder or more severe COVID-19 infection. According to pharmaceutical companies, vaccines could be updated to combat the variant "in around 100 days" if necessary.

Relating to naturally acquired immunity, Anne von Gottberg, an expert at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, believed at the beginning of December 2021 that immunity granted by previous variants would not protect against Omicron.

On 15 December 2021 Jenny Harries, head of the UK Health Security Agency, told a parliamentary committee that the doubling time of COVID-19 in most regions of the UK was now less than two days, despite the majority of the population being vaccinated. She said that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is "probably the most significant threat since the start of the pandemic", and that the number of cases in the next few days would be "quite staggering compared to the rate of growth that we've seen in cases for previous variants".

Work made available online by researchers at the University of Hong Kong on 15 December 2021 before peer review reports that Omicron grew seventy times faster than Delta in bronchial tissue, which could help explain the variant's rapid transmission. Omicron also grew ten times slower in lung tissue, which the authors suggest could indicate lower disease severity. The researchers said that the result needed to be interpreted with caution; in particular, even a less virulent variant could cause more cases of severe disease and death by infecting more people, concluding that "the overall threat from the Omicron variant is likely to be very significant".

 

Virulence

Fergus Walsh wrote in November 2021 "South Africa has a young population and it is encouraging that doctors there are reporting that Omicron is causing mild symptoms with no increase in hospital admissions. But we need to see what happens when the variant moves into older age groups who are the most vulnerable to Covid." However, in an update on the variant, the World Health Organizationstated "Preliminary data suggests that there are increasing rates of hospitalization in South Africa", even if it has not been determined that this is attributed to this specific variant.

On 4 December 2021, the South African Medical Research Council reported that from 14 to 29 November 2021 at a hospital complex in Tshwane, inpatients were younger than in previous waves and the ICU and oxygen therapy rates were lower than in earlier waves. These observations are not definitive and the clinical profile could change over the following two weeks, allowing for more accurate conclusions about disease severity. Excess deaths nearly doubled in the week of 28 November, suggesting under-reporting, but the level was still much lower than that seen in the second wave in mid-January. On 12 December, director-general of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanomasserted that it was “wrong for people to consider Omicron as mild”. This is because high exposure to previous infections in South Africa likely affects the clinical course of the new infections. As of 15 December 2021, 20 days after the first significant uptick in South Africa cases, there was still no significant uptick in COVID deaths. This contrasted with the previous two waves, in both of which a substantial increase in deaths occurred starting 12 days after the first uptick in cases. 

A preliminary study by Neil Ferguson and others at Imperial College London reported on 18 December 2021 found that vaccines were substantially less effective against Omicron than Delta, and found no evidence that Omicron was milder than Delta. Vaccine protection against symptomatic infection was 4.5% less potent than against other variants, although much better after a third "booster" dose. However, the early data suggest that protection against infection severe enough to require hospitalisation remained at 80–86% sixty days after a booster, compared to over 95% for Delta. While 80% is good protection individually, at population level it would lead to many cases requring treatment.

 

The FDA has published guidelines on how PCR tests will be affected by Omicron."SARS-CoV-2 Viral Mutations: Impact on COVID-19 Tests". FDA. 16 December 2021. Retrieved 16 December 2021. Tests that detect multiple gene targets will continue to identify the testee as positive for COVID-19. S-gene dropout or target failure has been proposed as a shorthand way of differentiating Omicron from Delta.

The variant may be identified by sequencing and genotyping. The BA.1 lineage, but not the BA.2 lineage, can be identified by S gene target failure (SGTF) of the TaqPath assay, a trait shared with subsets of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant. Several other commercial assays can also be used, though they test for different amino acid substitutions.

 

As with other variants, the WHO recommended that people continue to keep enclosed spaces well ventilated, avoid crowding and close contact, wear well-fitting masks, clean hands frequently, and get vaccinated.

On 26 November 2021, BioNTech said it would know in two weeks whether the current vaccine is effective against the variant and that an updated vaccine could be shipped in 100 days if necessary. AstraZeneca, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson were also studying the variant's impact on the effectiveness of their vaccines. On the same day, Novavax stated that it was developing an updated vaccine requiring two doses for the Omicron variant, which the company expected to be ready for testing and manufacturing within a few weeks. On 29 November 2021, The Gamaleya Institute said that Sputnik Light should be effective against the variant, that it would begin adapting Sputnik V, and that a modified version could be ready for mass production in 45 days. Sinovac said it could quickly mass-produce an inactivated vaccine against the variant and that it was monitoring studies and collecting samples of the variant to determine if a new vaccine is needed. On 7 December 2021, at a symposium in Brazil with its partner Instituto Butantan, Sinovac said it would update its vaccine to the new variant and make it available in three months.

On 29 November 2021, the WHO said cases and infections are expected among those vaccinated, albeit in a small and predictable proportion. 

On 7 December 2021, preliminary results from a laboratory test conducted at the Africa Health Research Institute in Durban with 12 people who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine found a 41-fold reduction in neutralizing antibody activity against the variant in some of the samples. This is a big reduction, but it does not mean that the variant can escape vaccines completely, so vaccination with current vaccines is still recommended. Neutralizing antibody activity against the variant was greater in those fully vaccinated after being infected about a year earlier. Effectiveness estimates will likely change as more data is collected, as antibodies generated by vaccination vary widely between individuals and the sample was small. On 8 December 2021, Pfizer and BioNTech reported that preliminary data indicated that a third dose of the vaccine would provide a similar level of neutralizing antibodies against the variant as seen against other variants after two doses. A preprint from Germany also suggests that many of the people who receive three doses of an mRNA vaccine can form antibodies to omicron. 

On 10 December 2021, the UK Health Security Agency reported that early data indicated a 20- to 40-fold reduction in neutralizing activity for Omicron by sera from Pfizer 2-dose vaccinees relative to earlier strains and a 20-fold reduction relative to Delta. The reduction was greater in sera from AstraZeneca 2-dose vaccinees, falling below the detectable threshold. An mRNA booster dose produced a similar increase in neutralising activity regardless of the vaccine used for primary vaccination. After a booster dose (usually with an mRNA vaccine), vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic disease was at 70%–75%, and the effectiveness against severe disease was expected to be higher. 

On 26 November 2021 the WHO asked nations to do the following:

• Enhance surveillance and sequencing efforts to better understand circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• Submit complete genome sequences and associated metadata to a publicly available database, such as GISAID.
• Report initial cases/clusters associated with virus-of-concern infection to WHO through the IHRmechanism.
• Where capacity exists and in coordination with the international community, perform field investigations and laboratory assessments to improve understanding of the potential impacts of the virus of concern on COVID-19 epidemiology, severity, and the effectiveness of public health and social measures, diagnostic methods, immune responses, antibody neutralization, or other relevant characteristics. 

On December 14, Davide Corti et al. released a preprint suggesting that previous infection with COVID-19 with no vaccine or two doses of the Johnson & Johnson, Sinopharm or Sputnik vaccines were not generating significant antibodies to a virus with an Omicron spike, but many of the health care workers who had had two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines and had also previously recovered from COVID-19 did generate antibodies.

 

Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone and IL6 receptor blockers such as tocilizumab(Actemra) are known to be effective for managing patients with the earlier strains of severe COVID-19. The impact on the effectiveness of other treatments was being assessed in 2021. 

 

On 29 November 2021, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said that Pfizer had submitted an Emergency Use Authorization application to the FDA for development of the RNA virus antiviral drug Paxlovid, and the company was confident that it could treat the Omicron variant.[83][medical citation needed] Merckand Ridgeback were evaluating the anti–RNA virus drug molnupiravir for omicron treatment at the time.

Relating to monoclonal antibodies (moAb) treatments, similar testing and research is undergoing. Preclinical data on in vitro pseudotyped virus data demonstrate that some moAbs designed to use highly conserved epitopes retain neutralizing activity against key mutations of Omicron substitutions.

A preprint of early December 2021 suggests that casirivimab/imdevimab may no longer be effective at inhibiting Omicron. According to another preprint, the monoclonal antibody sotrovimab may be effective against viruses similar to Omicron. A third preprint suggests that sotrovimab and DXP-604 may function at reduced efficacy against Omicron, and that the variant may escape tixagevimab/cilgavimab, casirivimab/imdevimab, bamlanivimab/etesevimab and amubarvimab. Davide Corti et al. released a preprint suggesting that casirivimab/imdevimab and bamlanivimab/etesevimabwere generating fewer neutralizing antibodies, but sotrovimab and Vir-7832 seem to be holding up.

 

Epidemiology

On 26 November 2021, the South African  National Institute for Communicable Diseases announced that 30,904 COVID-tests (in one day) detected 2,828 new COVID infections (a 9.2% positivity rate). One week later, on 3 December 2021, the NICD announced that 65,990 COVID tests had found 16,055 new infections (5.7 times as many as seven days before; positive rate 24.3%) and that 72 percent of them were found in Gauteng. This province of South Africa is densely populated at about 850 inhabitants per km2. Gauteng's capital Johannesburg is a megacity (about 5.5 million inhabitants in the city itself plus 9.5 million in the urban region).

In November 2021 the transmissibility of the Omicron variant, as compared to the Delta variant or other variants of the COVID-19 virus, was still uncertain. Omicron is frequently able to infect previously Covid-positive people. 

It has been estimated the Omicron variant diverged in late September or early October 2021, based on Omicron genome comparisons. Sequencing data suggests that Omicron had become the dominant variant in South Africa by November 2021, the same month where it had been first identified in the country. Phylogeny suggests a recent emergence. Data from South Africa suggests that Omicron has a pronounced growth advantage there. However, this may be due to transmissibility or immune escape related, or both." 

Detectable changes in levels of COVID-19 in wastewater samples from South Africa's Gauteng province were seen as early as 17–23 October (week 42). The National Institute for Communicable Diseases reports that children under the age of 2 make up 10% of total hospital admissions in the Omicron epicentre Tshwane in South Africa. 

A study suggests that Omicron has picked up one of its mutations, ins214EPE, from HCoV-229E, a common cold coronavirus strain, a genetic sequence also present in the human genome. This appears to aid the virus in circumventing the human immune system.

In the UK, the logarithmic growth rate of Omicron-associated S gene target failure (SGTF) cases over S gene target positive (SGTP) cases was estimated at 0.41 per day, which is exceptionally high.Furthermore, by 13 December it appears to have become the most dominant strain. Without presuming behavior change in response to the variant, a million infections per day by December 24 are projected for a 2.5 days doubling time. In Denmark, the growth rate has been roughly similar with a doubling time of about 2–3 days (with some geographical differences), it having reached about one-third of all COVID-19 cases on 14 December. 

Switzerland is not far behind and neither is Germany. In Scotland, Omicron apparently became the most prevalent variant around 11 December, or otherwise may occur early in the week afterwards. In Ontario it appears to have become the most prevalent strain around 13 December. Other countries may not have enough timely information, as they may not use Thermo Fisher TaqPath Assay or equivalent for their PCR tests to indicate Omicron.

Data on the SGTF status of sampled cases in South Africa indicates a similar growth of 21% per day relative to Delta, generating an increased reproduction number by a factor of 2.4. Omicron became the majority strain in South Africa around 10 November. Another analysis showed 32% growth per day in Gauteng, South Africa, having become dominant there around 6 November. 

 

The chance of detecting a case particularly depends on a country's sequencing rate. For example, South Africa sequences far more samples than any other country in Africa, but at a considerably lower rate than most Western nations. Furthermore it can take up to two weeks to return a viral sequence in places with the technical capability, hence solid statistics on confirmed cases lag the actual situation. Denmark and Norway regard cases found by their variant qPCR test, which is relatively fast and checks several genes, as sufficient for counting it as an Omicron, also before full sequencing.