At the end of 2019, a number of people in China were infected by a new coronavirus. This virus can cause pneumonia.
Coronaviruses have been around for a long time. There are different strains. Usually these viruses only cause mild symptoms, such as colds. The new coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms, such as pneumonia.
At the moment there have not been any reported cases of the disease in the Netherlands. Most people affected by the disease have recently been in Wuhan.
Symptoms include fever, paired with a cold, sore throat, coughing or breathing difficulties.
Prevention
How to prevent viral infections:
- Wash your hands regularly
- Sneeze and cough into your elbow
- Use paper tissues.
Phone your GP
if all three of the following apply to you:
- You have visited the city of Wuhan
- You have a fever (over 38 degrees)
- You are also experiencing 2 or more of the following symptoms: coughing, a cold, sore throat, difficulty breathing.
Please do not visit your GP or Central Medical Office (‘Huisartsenpost – HAP’) in person, as that could cause further spreading of the disease.
Read more at the site of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (in English and Chinese)
This news item is a translation of a post by Thuisarts.nl. The information is not intended to replace a consultation with a GP. For personal advice, please contact your GP. Please read our disclaimer.