Coronaviruses

     COVID-19 previously coronavirus infection 2019-nCoV , coronavirus infection 2019 - a potentially severe  acute respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (2019-nCoV) . It is a dangerous disease , which can occur both in the form of an acute respiratory viral infection of the mild course , and in a severe form . The virus is capable of infecting various organs through direct infection or through the body's immune response . The most common complication of the disease is viral pneumonia, which can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome and subsequent acute respiratory failure, in which oxygen therapy and respiratory support are most often required . Complications include multiple organ failure, septic shock, and venous thromboembolism . The most common symptoms of the disease are fever, fatigue, and dry cough . In rare cases, the virus infection in children and adolescents, presumably, can lead to the development of an inflammatory syndrome . Long-term complications called postcoid syndrome are also possible .

    The virus spreads by airborne droplets through inhalation of droplets with the virus sprayed in the air when coughing, sneezing or talking , as well as through the ingress of the virus on a surface with subsequent introduction into the eyes, nose or mouth. Effective preventive measures include frequent handwashing and good respiratory hygiene . In order to reduce the spread of infection in Russia, a mandatory mask regime has been introduced since October 28, 2020, which implies the need to wear masks in public places, including shops and public transport . The disease is caused by a new virus against which people initially do not have acquired immunity , people of all age categories are susceptible to infection . 

    As of October 1, 2020, there was no specific antiviral treatment or prevention against the virus . As of October 16, corticosteroids were the only effective drug in severe and critical cases . In most cases (approximately 80%), no specific treatment is required, and recovery occurs on its own . Severe forms of the disease are more likely to develop in the elderly and in people with certain comorbidities, including asthma, diabetes, and heart disease . In severe cases, funds are used to maintain the functions of vital organs .

    In the majority of those infected, the infection is mild or asymptomatic . In about 15% of cases, the disease proceeds in a severe form with the need for oxygen therapy, in another 5% the condition of patients is critical . The mortality rate from infection (IFR) is estimated at about 0.68% , according to the WHO seroprevalence analysis - at 0.27% . According to the analysis of data on 1,099 patients as of February 28, 2020, 91.1% of patients with COVID-19 were diagnosed with pneumonia. Indicators may change over time.

    In connection with the epidemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern , and the risks at the global level are assessed as very high [28]. Various scientific and clinical studies are underway . Many scientific and medical publishing houses and organizations have signed up to the declaration of free access and exchange of information related to the new disease .

    On March 11, 2020, the spread of the virus was recognized by WHO as a pandemic . This epidemic is the first pandemic in human history that can be brought under control . It makes sense for governments to prepare lists of trained personnel able to take control of the situation, as well as lists of medicines, personal protective equipment, supplies and equipment needed for treatment . WHO is urging countries to prepare hospitals, ensure the protection of health workers, and decide whether to take some form of social distancing measures .