The Novel Coronavirus, also known as Covid-19, or scientifically SARS-CoV-2, is the virus causing the worldwide pandemic we are currently living in. SARS, which stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome, is one of a group of 7 coronaviruses. It is spread through airborne droplets, saliva, contaminated surfaces, or skin-to-skin contact. To prevent the spread of the virus, the CDC recommends everyone wear a mask and stay 6 feet away from those not in your household, as well as washing your hands often and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. 

   

   

   According to WHO (the World Health Organization) “Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. [However,] Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.”.

   

   

   Symptoms of the virus can include: fever and chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or feeling out of it. In extreme cases, Covid can cause secondary illnesses, such as pneumonia. 

   

   

   There is currently no vaccine to prevent the virus, however there are some treatments for symptom management. Some studies claim that taking over the counter medicines such as tylenol and vitamin-c, as well as drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest may help reduce symptoms. In more extreme cases, hospitalization is required. According to WHO, about 1 in 5 people with the virus will develop severe enough symptoms to require hospitalization. Those hospitalized may receive oxygen and/or the trial drug called Remdesivir. 

   

   

   Remdesivir, also known as Veklury, is a broad spectrum antiviral medication currently authorized for emergency treatment of Covid-19. It is used in severe cases, administered through an IV for either 5 or 10 days.

   

   

   My experience with the virus started on Oct. 20th, the day before I tested positive for covid. I felt like I had a little cold, I had a bit of a cough, congestion, and a fever. The next day, I developed body aches, chills, sore throat, headache, and extreme fatigue. By day three, I had all typical symptoms of the virus. This lasted for about 10 days. Now, two weeks after I tested positive, my symptoms have improved significantly. I am still extremely exhausted, and have loss of appetite, but I am slowly getting back to normal. 

   

   

   My family, who got the virus too, are also slowly getting better. My daughter, who is 6 months old, was originally diagnosed with pink-eye. After we found out I had covid, we got her tested, and she was also positive. She was mostly just tired and fussy, and threw up quite a bit. My mom tested positive a few days after my daughter, and she also became extremely ill, with all the symptoms of the virus. Currently, she is dealing with secondary respiratory issues. My mom’s boyfriend got the virus a few days after she got better, and got it the most severe of all of us. On November 8th, he went into the hospital, unable to breathe. He stayed there for 4 days, and was given oxygen and Remdesivir to help him improve. 

   

   

   This past week, the Indiana State Department of Health has confirmed 5,156 more positive cases, as well as a surge of hospital admittances. Due to this influx, Mayor Hogsett and the Marion County Public Health Department have implemented new restrictions. This includes schools going completely virtual, restaurants limited to 50% capacity, social gatherings limited to 25 people, and more.