Coronavirus or COVID-19 explained: Everything you should know

Coronavirus explainer

Wuhan in China has been identified as the epicentre of the outbreak, specifically a wild life animal meat market. The virus was initially named nCOV because the strain is completely new and has never been encountered by humans.

Coronavirus infection shows flu-like symptoms in infected patients. Some cases did not show any symptoms at all.

INCUBATION PERIOD: The incubation period is used to determine if your travel period to any high-risk destination could have led to a possible infection.

WHO ARE THE HIGH RISH PATIENTS? High-risk patients include people older than 80, or individuals with pre-existing respirator conditions such as asthma, or people who have low immunity due to any other reason. Reports show children tend to have very few symptoms and are sturdier in battling Covid-19.

Immunity is the best defense against the virus which is why people with weaker immune systems are prone to complications.

Over 3,100 people died, mostly in China, as of March 3. However, death rates are increasing in other countries such as South Korea, Iran and Italy as cases jump higher.

Five patients recovered in the UAE including a 73-year-old grandmother, a Chinese national

The death toll from Covid-19 is higher than SARS but lower than the seasonal flu that affects millions of people each year.

The critical point is to not panic and go straight to a doctor.

DHA has defined what a 'suspected' coronavirus case is.

Wearing surgical masks may not helping you at all, washing your hands regularly is more effective

For more information contact the UAE's health authorities. Stay healthy and safe!