What is a pandemic and how does COVID-19 spread?

A pandemic is an epidemic characterized by the spread of infectious disease in the territory of the country, neighbouring countries, many countries of the world and on different continents. A pandemic is declared in case of:

 • Infectious disease is spreading throughout the country and neighbouring countries;

 • There are no effective means of prevention (vaccines) and treatment;

 • There is no collective immunity in humanity.

How does COVID-19 spread?

There are two main ways to transmit the COVID-19 virus: droplets (coughing or sneezing) and contact. When we use masks we automatically protect others from infectious diseases. Enhanced disinfection significantly reduces the chance of contact transmission.

Interesting fact: The survival time of COVID-19 depends on several factors: surface type, temperature, humidity and virus strain. Effective reduction of virus activity is achieved within a minute using disinfectants, for example, 70% ethanol. That is why it is important to wash your hands frequently, to avoid handshakes and hugs, to disinfect phone screens and other things.

Why is COVID-19 mostly smiting the lungs?

Everything is quite simple: the lungs have functional elements called pulmonary alveolates. They are made of cells — alveolates, which are able to form angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2). This enzyme is the main element of reproduction way of COVID-19 in the body. Binding them together leads to the increased formation of this enzyme, that can lead to damage to alveolar cells. Damage of a large number of cells leads to the reaction of the whole organism and deterioration of the general state.

Interesting fact: men have a higher level of this enzyme than women, so in case of infection, the rate of respiratory disorders is 3 times faster than women. 

If you feel symptoms — you should to self-isolate and call your family doctor!

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You can also read other publications about COVID-19:
• The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine extended the quarantine until April 24

• Important contacts for quarantine

• Refutation of Coronavirus Myths

• Changes in transport connection during the quarantine in Ukraine caused by the COVID-19 pandemic 

• Why is it important less to worry about coronavirus?

• Eviction from universities` hostels caused by quarantine regime 

• What is a pandemic and how does COVID-19 spread?

• Yoga challenge