20 Feb 2020 Nabin Baniya
Coronavirus
According to the WHO, coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to other more serious diseases such as SARS and MERS. These viruses were originally transmitted between animals and people. SARS is believed to be transmitted from civet cats, whereas MERS traveled from a type of camel to humans. The name “coronavirus” comes from the Latin word “corona,” which means “crown” or “halo.” Under the electron microscope, the image of the virus is reminiscent of a solar corona. A novel coronavirus is identified by Chinese authorities on January 7, which is named 2019-nCov. This is a new strain that had not been previously identified in humans. Coronavirus in Nepal has not arrived yet.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
According to the WHO, the signs of infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and difficulties in breathing. In more cases, it can lead to pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death. The incubation period of this virus remains unknown. Some sources say it could be between 10 days and 2 weeks.
Where have cases of coronavirus been reported?
China is the country where most cases and deaths have been reported. So far the Philippines is the only country that has reported a fatality from the new virus outside of China. This virus spared many Asian countries as well as Australia. Europe, North America, and the Middle East are also among the countries where the virus spread. Nearly all these dozens of cases outside are among the people who recently traveled to China.
How to protect yourself from novel coronavirus infection?
- Clean hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
- Avoid unprotected contact with live wild or farm animals.
- Thoroughly cook meat and eggs.
- Avoid close contact with those who show signs of the flu.
- Cover nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or fixed elbow.
Conditions of Coronavirus in Nepal
The government of Nepal has officially launched a notice regarding the truth of coronavirus. The notice is about the current situation of the virus in Nepal. TAAN notified in a press statement that the Ministry of Health has joined hands with the Ministry of Tourism in Nepal. It is to check and curb the impact of the virus. This is also to isolate such cases when reported. A separate health desk is set up at Tribhuvan International Airport as well as border points along Nepal and China. These health desks are manned by doctors as well as health professionals. Four hospitals are running intensive care units to treat any patients of coronavirus.
Affects to Nepal
The epidemic outbreak of coronavirus in China has started alarming the Nepali tourism sector. Nepal has just inaugurated the Visit Nepal Year 2020 campaign. The Chinese government has implemented travel restrictions across the country. China tourism associations have halted all outbound tourist groups since January 2, 2020. From the virus, the treks to Everest base camp and Annapurna, as well as many others, are with only a few people, which seems to decrease day by day.
Could you please share what measures are being taken to prevent its spread?
Scientists are working on a vaccine but have warned one is unlikely to be available for mass distribution before 2021. Chinese authorities have effectively sealed off Wuhan and have placed restrictions on travel to and from several other cities. Many airlines have canceled flights to China. Some countries from Europe as well as other continents have banned Chinese people from entering their nations.
New Update on Coronavirus
Now, Nepal is out of danger, and people have started to visit Nepal and do the adventure activities in a rapid way. Right now Magic Himalaya Treks operates the Everest Base Camp Yoga Trek, the Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek, the Everest Base Camp Short Trek, and the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour in a rapid way.
Conclusion:
By the date, there is no coronavirus in Nepal. So, people around the globe can visit Nepal for trekking as well as touring activities. Our trekking destinations like Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang are calling you. Do visit them, and don’t cancel your trekking plan.
