On the news, you may have heard of the coronavirus (2019-nCoV infection).  The virus, which was named for the spikes on its surface that resemble a crown,  originated in China in a catlike animal known as civet before being contracted by humans.   To date, there have been over 10,000 human confirmed cases of coronavirus in over 29 countries.  So far there have been 4 confirmed cases in British Columbia.  

Our caregiver agency in Vancouver is closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds and will be updating this blog with information as it is being released.

What is Coronavirus?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the coronaviruses are a large group of viruses; common cold being one of them. These diseases affect both humans and animals. The 2019-20 strain of coronavirus is related to two other viruses that caused major outbreaks in recent years: Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and SARS.

In rare instances, coronaviruses transmit from animals to humans. This does not include household pets. Health officials believe that this was what caused this strain of virus. In even rarer circumstances, the same virus is then transmitted from human to human.  WHO officials have confirmed that there have been documented cases of human-to-human transmissions. This means that the virus can spread to humans through airborne droplets.

The exact methods of transmission and details about the incubation period have not yet been released.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

Coronavirus infections are very common and often just lead to a common cold. Young infants can also be affected by gastrointestinal diseases. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate:

  • runny nose
  • headache
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • fever
  • a general feeling of being unwell

Although rare, other types of coronavirus infections can cause more severe illnesses, such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, kidney failure, or even death.

Risk Increases With Age       

The risk of contracting the virus is low, according to Health Officials in Canada. However, older people and people who were already sick before contracting the virus are at a higher risk. This is because they may have pre-existing co-morbidities (e.g., Type 2 Diabetes and Lung Disease) that compromise their immune system and make them more susceptible to the infection.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The following prevention tips will also assist you:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

For more information about the coronavirus, please visit the following websites:

Ace Personnel | Professional Caregivers for Seniors and Homecare | Vancouver and Surrey

Important Information on Novel Coronavirus | Ace Personnel
 ACE Personnel is a family owned and operated service founded in 1977 by Diane Anderson (“Mrs. A”). It began as a home-based business and has since been devoted to helping the local community with childcare and home care solutions. Mrs. A took great pride in the fact that she was able to help others through elderly care and nanny placements. She took time to get to know her each of her clients and as a result developed lasting relationships with many of them.

Contact us today if you are looking for a professional caregiver or homecare for your loved one.