Primary Prevention of COVID 19

Abstract

Coronavirus disease - 19 is caused by a newly discovered virus called coronavirus. Coronavirus is a spherical ,
enveloped particle with a single stranded RNA which causes acute mild respiratory illness. The transmission
is via airborne droplets. It multiplies in the nasal mucosa causing cell damage and inflammation. COVID
19 has been increasing exponentially as it spreads very fast and in a country like India with a population of
135 crore it is difficult to curtail the spread of the virus. The steps taken to control this spread such as social
distancing, nation-wide lockdown were important to restrict the geographical spread of coronavirus. The
virus is transmitted by droplets which can travel in air when an infected person or carrier coughs or sneezes.
Therefore, primary preventive measures like practicing hygiene with soap and water for at least 60 seconds
or using alcohol-based hand rub, social distancing and lockdown were implemented. This article covers the
method of hand washing, steps of hand washing and gives information about the do’s and don’ts of alcoholbased hand rubs. It also covers the importance of social distancing and lockdown with the social distancing
methods adopted in India.