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Coronavirus Vaccine Update: Positive Development For Indian COVID-19 Vaccine, Moderna Moves To Second Phase Testing
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 2, 2020, 19:23 IST
01/12COVID-19: Status of vaccine development
It has officially been more than six months since the COVID-19 pandemic, since it started to spread.
According to the latest figures, the infection cases have breached the 6 million mark, with 1,98,700 cases reported out of India alone.
The rising number of cases across the world have paved the way for speedy clinical trials as the hunt for an effective vaccine or cure continues. Experts still suggest that it could take anywhere between 12-16 months for the world to get a ready vaccine to counter the virus. Even so, more than 110 groups around the world are in contention to manufacture a vaccine right now. Some have advanced to the second phase, while others are experimenting with alternative medicines. We give you an update on the latest round of development of the most promising vaccines right now.
It has officially been more than six months since the COVID-19 pandemic, since it started to spread.
According to the latest figures, the infection cases have breached the 6 million mark, with 1,98,700 cases reported out of India alone.
The rising number of cases across the world have paved the way for speedy clinical trials as the hunt for an effective vaccine or cure continues. Experts still suggest that it could take anywhere between 12-16 months for the world to get a ready vaccine to counter the virus. Even so, more than 110 groups around the world are in contention to manufacture a vaccine right now. Some have advanced to the second phase, while others are experimenting with alternative medicines. We give you an update on the latest round of development of the most promising vaccines right now.
02/12Bharat Biotech Vaccine study shows promising results
The vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited in collaboration with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has shown positive development with lead researchers pinpointing the next month as the most "crucial" stage. While the makers haven't let a word out on the status of human trials, they have high hopes on the working of the vaccine, which is modelled on building up the body's immunity. In a statement given to IANS, CEO Dr Krishna Mohan Ella said, "The vaccine development is moving in a positive direction. The next month is very crucial. I am a scientist and I believe in science."
Even though the latest developments are promising and first of a kind for any Indian company, it could take anywhere between 6-12 months before we see the vaccine ready and dosing starts.
The vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited in collaboration with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has shown positive development with lead researchers pinpointing the next month as the most "crucial" stage. While the makers haven't let a word out on the status of human trials, they have high hopes on the working of the vaccine, which is modelled on building up the body's immunity. In a statement given to IANS, CEO Dr Krishna Mohan Ella said, "The vaccine development is moving in a positive direction. The next month is very crucial. I am a scientist and I believe in science."
Even though the latest developments are promising and first of a kind for any Indian company, it could take anywhere between 6-12 months before we see the vaccine ready and dosing starts.
03/12What other vaccine trials are underway in India?
Apart from this, there are seven other Indian vaccines in the works which have been okayed by the WHO, some of which are all set to proceed to the human clinical trial phase. Serum Institue of India, amongst them, has partnered with Oxford University in their vaccine clinical trials.
Apart from this, there are seven other Indian vaccines in the works which have been okayed by the WHO, some of which are all set to proceed to the human clinical trial phase. Serum Institue of India, amongst them, has partnered with Oxford University in their vaccine clinical trials.
04/12Moderna vaccine enters the second stage
US-based Moderna Therapeutic's innovative messenger RNA-1273 prototype is being seen as one of the most promising contenders globally. The pharma group has proceeded to conduct stage 2 of the clinical trials and has started dosing patients accordingly, a statement released by the company said. In the second phase of its trial and plans to enrol around 600 more patients moving forward.
US-based Moderna Therapeutic's innovative messenger RNA-1273 prototype is being seen as one of the most promising contenders globally. The pharma group has proceeded to conduct stage 2 of the clinical trials and has started dosing patients accordingly, a statement released by the company said. In the second phase of its trial and plans to enrol around 600 more patients moving forward.
05/12How safe is Moderna's vaccine
Early data collated from the first phase of the vaccine trial have been by and large successful which showed that mRNA-1272 spike protein was able to speed up the production of neccessary antibodies in healthy patients. If deemed effective, the pharmaceutical giant plans to start mass-scale production to fight the ongoing battle.
Early data collated from the first phase of the vaccine trial have been by and large successful which showed that mRNA-1272 spike protein was able to speed up the production of neccessary antibodies in healthy patients. If deemed effective, the pharmaceutical giant plans to start mass-scale production to fight the ongoing battle.
06/12Examining possible side-effects
While the vaccine is being tested in a speedy way, just last week, the vaccine makers hit a low when a report observed possible side-effects in volunteers who had taken part in the trial. One of the patients who had taken part in a trial reported getting chills, nausea and aching cramps and muscle pain after getting the second dosage for the same. The critical observations are being looked onto for the same.
While the vaccine is being tested in a speedy way, just last week, the vaccine makers hit a low when a report observed possible side-effects in volunteers who had taken part in the trial. One of the patients who had taken part in a trial reported getting chills, nausea and aching cramps and muscle pain after getting the second dosage for the same. The critical observations are being looked onto for the same.
07/12Russia to start testing clinical drug, vaccine trial underway
Russia, which has recorded the third-highest number of COVID-19 positive cases has made steady developments in medical intervention. While the country plans to start administrating the first country produced coronavirus drug, Avifavir to patients starting June 11, plans are underway to kickstart clinical trials for another vaccine in the next two weeks and standard testing is underway.
One of the companies behind the production of the Russian vaccine is state-run Vektor Institue, Siberia, who are positive about complete clinical trials by September. Animal trials have already started for the same.
Russia, which has recorded the third-highest number of COVID-19 positive cases has made steady developments in medical intervention. While the country plans to start administrating the first country produced coronavirus drug, Avifavir to patients starting June 11, plans are underway to kickstart clinical trials for another vaccine in the next two weeks and standard testing is underway.
One of the companies behind the production of the Russian vaccine is state-run Vektor Institue, Siberia, who are positive about complete clinical trials by September. Animal trials have already started for the same.
08/12Sinovac 99% sure of vaccine working against COVID-19
The Chinese pharma company, Sinovac Biotech, who has been working on producing a vaccine earmarked CoronaVac are hopeful of getting good results and have even said that they are 99% sure that the vaccine could help curb the spread of the virus.
Just like its competitors, the company too is in stage 2 of trials. The vaccine has shown promising results in the first phase where it was tested on monkeys and if reports are to go by, stage 3 trials will be kickstarted in parts of the United Kingdom soon enough. They have already received neccessary funding and factory space to spruce up productions if all the safety checks are passed going forward.
The Chinese pharma company, Sinovac Biotech, who has been working on producing a vaccine earmarked CoronaVac are hopeful of getting good results and have even said that they are 99% sure that the vaccine could help curb the spread of the virus.
Just like its competitors, the company too is in stage 2 of trials. The vaccine has shown promising results in the first phase where it was tested on monkeys and if reports are to go by, stage 3 trials will be kickstarted in parts of the United Kingdom soon enough. They have already received neccessary funding and factory space to spruce up productions if all the safety checks are passed going forward.
09/12More vaccines under development in China
Interestingly, there are many more vaccines are in the work in China and over 5 of these have reached the human trial stage. Another promising vaccine candidate is being jointly developed by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products and China National Biotec Group Co. Phase 2 testing is underway and if neccessary approvals are received, the vaccine can be ready for sale by the end of the year or early year. Experts say that the vaccine will employ the use of a killed novel coronavirus strain which will help trigger an immune response in the body once injected.
Interestingly, there are many more vaccines are in the work in China and over 5 of these have reached the human trial stage. Another promising vaccine candidate is being jointly developed by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products and China National Biotec Group Co. Phase 2 testing is underway and if neccessary approvals are received, the vaccine can be ready for sale by the end of the year or early year. Experts say that the vaccine will employ the use of a killed novel coronavirus strain which will help trigger an immune response in the body once injected.
10/12Status of CanSino vaccine
CanSino vaccine, which is developed by a China-based company also became the first of its kind to proceed to stage 2 of the study and for its preliminary results to get peer-reviewed. In the testing done so far, participants who received a single dose of the vaccine produced certain immune cells, called T cells, within two weeks while the antibodies needed for immunity peaked at 28 days.
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Coronavirus vaccine update: Positive development for Indian COVID-19 vaccine, Moderna moves to second phase testing
CanSino vaccine, which is developed by a China-based company also became the first of its kind to proceed to stage 2 of the study and for its preliminary results to get peer-reviewed. In the testing done so far, participants who received a single dose of the vaccine produced certain immune cells, called T cells, within two weeks while the antibodies needed for immunity peaked at 28 days.
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Coronavirus vaccine update: Positive development for Indian COVID-19 vaccine, Moderna moves to second phase testing
Coronavirus vaccine update: Positive development for Indian COVID-19 vaccine, Moderna moves to second phase testing
Getty Images | Last updated on - Jun 2, 2020, 19:23 IST
11/12Patanjali group kickstarts Ayurveda clinical trials
While on one hand traditional vaccine makers are experimenting with prototypes in the development phase, yoga guru Baba Ramdev's Patanjali group has also entered the race to hunt for a preventive vaccine to fight COVID-19. The company, which is basing its trials on Ayurvedic supplements have got the ready approvals and are now proceeding to start the tests. In the first phase, the tests will be done in cities like Indore and Jaipur.
While on one hand traditional vaccine makers are experimenting with prototypes in the development phase, yoga guru Baba Ramdev's Patanjali group has also entered the race to hunt for a preventive vaccine to fight COVID-19. The company, which is basing its trials on Ayurvedic supplements have got the ready approvals and are now proceeding to start the tests. In the first phase, the tests will be done in cities like Indore and Jaipur.
12/12Using Ayurveda herbs for coronavirus
The company has said that they will be focussing on finding a cure for COVID-19, instead of just simply building the body's immunity. They have screened more than 1000 phytochemicals (including those with anti-viral properties like ashwagandha, giloy, tulsi) which could control or suppress virus entry into the cells. The company's director, Acharya Balkrishna has also said that they have successfully treated many COVID-19 affected patients with ayurvedic medicines.
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Air travel during corona: Why it still remains our safest option in this chaos
The company has said that they will be focussing on finding a cure for COVID-19, instead of just simply building the body's immunity. They have screened more than 1000 phytochemicals (including those with anti-viral properties like ashwagandha, giloy, tulsi) which could control or suppress virus entry into the cells. The company's director, Acharya Balkrishna has also said that they have successfully treated many COVID-19 affected patients with ayurvedic medicines.
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Air travel during corona: Why it still remains our safest option in this chaos
Air travel during corona: Why it still remains our safest option in this chaos
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 2, 2020, 17:05 IST
01/7Air travel during corona: Why it still remains our safest option in this chaos
Even as record-breaking fresh cases of novel coronavirus are being reported every day, India is slowly gearing up for the first phase of its unlock plan. People are stepping out of their houses to embrace the new normalcy with face-covers and social distancing. As domestic flights in India also resumed functioning last week, the battle to avoid the coronavirus infection is becoming more challenging.
Even as record-breaking fresh cases of novel coronavirus are being reported every day, India is slowly gearing up for the first phase of its unlock plan. People are stepping out of their houses to embrace the new normalcy with face-covers and social distancing. As domestic flights in India also resumed functioning last week, the battle to avoid the coronavirus infection is becoming more challenging.
02/7What are the airlines doing
The airlines are seen going out of their way with hygiene and sanitation practices to ensure customers feel completely safe. Infact, several leading airlines can be seen posting videos and photographs of their equipped and sanitized aircraft, ready for usage. While all type of non-essential travel should be avoided right now, there is a reason why air travel still remains the safest options despite still being risky.
The airlines are seen going out of their way with hygiene and sanitation practices to ensure customers feel completely safe. Infact, several leading airlines can be seen posting videos and photographs of their equipped and sanitized aircraft, ready for usage. While all type of non-essential travel should be avoided right now, there is a reason why air travel still remains the safest options despite still being risky.
03/7The sitting arrangement
As per the WHO guidelines, it is essential to maintain a distance of at least one metre from others to prevent the novel coronavirus infection. As a result, the transmission risk reduces with the distance, which means it is limited to one row in front and one row in the back of the infected passenger. As the distance between infectious passenger increases, the risk drastically reduces.
Moreover, the sitting arrangement of the flight does not allow for a lot of free movement or interaction with other passengers (except the two sitting with you), which again is a piece of good news considering social distancing.
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As per the WHO guidelines, it is essential to maintain a distance of at least one metre from others to prevent the novel coronavirus infection. As a result, the transmission risk reduces with the distance, which means it is limited to one row in front and one row in the back of the infected passenger. As the distance between infectious passenger increases, the risk drastically reduces.
Moreover, the sitting arrangement of the flight does not allow for a lot of free movement or interaction with other passengers (except the two sitting with you), which again is a piece of good news considering social distancing.
readmore04/7Recirculation of air
Even though an aircraft may seem like a confined space, it is loaded with airflow and filtration system to reduce cross-contamination. The air inside the aircraft is reportedly renewed every two to three minutes as it sucked out through the vents on the floor and passed through HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. These high-quality filters are similar to those used in hospitals and flush out 99.97 of particulates including the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is roughly 125 nanometres in diameter.
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Even though an aircraft may seem like a confined space, it is loaded with airflow and filtration system to reduce cross-contamination. The air inside the aircraft is reportedly renewed every two to three minutes as it sucked out through the vents on the floor and passed through HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. These high-quality filters are similar to those used in hospitals and flush out 99.97 of particulates including the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is roughly 125 nanometres in diameter.
readmore05/7The precautions being taken by the airlines
The Indian airline companies are also adding a host of precautions to make the air travel as safe as possible including the introduction of faces shields for the passengers. The flying crew will wear PPE kits to keep themselves and their passengers safe and special emphasis will be placed on regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch points like food trays, seat handles, doorknobs, overhead bins to keep the bags etc.
To make travelling safe, temperature testing will be carried out at entry points of the airports and self-check-in and remote bag drops will be the new normal to avoid clustering of people. Additionally, new directives from the centre include that no meals will be served on the airlines to avoid cross-contamination and passengers must install Aarogya Setu App on their phones.
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The Indian airline companies are also adding a host of precautions to make the air travel as safe as possible including the introduction of faces shields for the passengers. The flying crew will wear PPE kits to keep themselves and their passengers safe and special emphasis will be placed on regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch points like food trays, seat handles, doorknobs, overhead bins to keep the bags etc.
To make travelling safe, temperature testing will be carried out at entry points of the airports and self-check-in and remote bag drops will be the new normal to avoid clustering of people. Additionally, new directives from the centre include that no meals will be served on the airlines to avoid cross-contamination and passengers must install Aarogya Setu App on their phones.
readmore06/7What should you do
It is important to note that no amount of preventive methods can provide a hundred per cent guarantee of safety while travelling, including the flight. This is why it is important to weigh in all your options, assess your age and other risk factors and then only board the flight. While maintaining social distancing and wearing face-coverings and shields will provide you with a certain degree of protection, the risk of exposure will always be there.
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It is important to note that no amount of preventive methods can provide a hundred per cent guarantee of safety while travelling, including the flight. This is why it is important to weigh in all your options, assess your age and other risk factors and then only board the flight. While maintaining social distancing and wearing face-coverings and shields will provide you with a certain degree of protection, the risk of exposure will always be there.
readmore07/7A word of caution
This is why if you choose to travel by air, you may choose the window seat of the aircraft to avoid coming in contact with people getting up and going to the washroom or reaching out for overhead bins. Additionally, it is not the time spent in the aircraft which is riskier but the loitering around in airport while waiting to board the flight. This is the time when you need to be the most vigilant, avoid coming in contact with people, keep your hands strictly off your face and most importantly be aware of what you are touching. Remember that your mask should cover your nose and mouth and not be too loose.
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COVID-19 test false negative: Why do some patients get false negative even after contracting coronavirus? Here is the reason
This is why if you choose to travel by air, you may choose the window seat of the aircraft to avoid coming in contact with people getting up and going to the washroom or reaching out for overhead bins. Additionally, it is not the time spent in the aircraft which is riskier but the loitering around in airport while waiting to board the flight. This is the time when you need to be the most vigilant, avoid coming in contact with people, keep your hands strictly off your face and most importantly be aware of what you are touching. Remember that your mask should cover your nose and mouth and not be too loose.
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COVID-19 test false negative: Why do some patients get false negative even after contracting coronavirus? Here is the reason
COVID-19 test false negative: Why do some patients get false negative even after contracting coronavirus? Here is the reason
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 2, 2020, 11:38 IST
01/7COVID-19 test false negative: Why do some patients get false negative even after contracting coronavirus? Here is the reason
The total number of positive coronavirus infections has touched a shocking 6.15 million mark and the number may continue to rise as countries across the world are easing lockdown restrictions. The growing number of infections and fatalities is already overwhelming the medical care system and putting an enormous amount of strain on our healthcare workers. Even though scientists and medical experts are working round the clock to develop a vaccine to battle COVID-19, experts believe that it may still take anywhere between 12 to 18 months.
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The total number of positive coronavirus infections has touched a shocking 6.15 million mark and the number may continue to rise as countries across the world are easing lockdown restrictions. The growing number of infections and fatalities is already overwhelming the medical care system and putting an enormous amount of strain on our healthcare workers. Even though scientists and medical experts are working round the clock to develop a vaccine to battle COVID-19, experts believe that it may still take anywhere between 12 to 18 months.
readmore02/7The reason behind COVID-19 test false negatives
In addition to the highly contagious nature of the virus, another scary aspect is the inaccuracies of theCOVID-19 test which result in false negatives. A false negative is not only worrying for the patient, but he/she can also turn into a silent carrier of the novel coronavirus, without accurate results. A false negative is when the virus does not show up in the tests even though the person has contracted the infection.
As of now, there are two main types of tests for detecting COVID 19 ie. RT-PCR test and antibody tests, out of which the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test are excellent in ideal conditions. The RT-PCR test is a molecular test for which swabs are taken from the far back of the nose and mouth, while the antibody test is done by collecting blood samples.
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In addition to the highly contagious nature of the virus, another scary aspect is the inaccuracies of theCOVID-19 test which result in false negatives. A false negative is not only worrying for the patient, but he/she can also turn into a silent carrier of the novel coronavirus, without accurate results. A false negative is when the virus does not show up in the tests even though the person has contracted the infection.
As of now, there are two main types of tests for detecting COVID 19 ie. RT-PCR test and antibody tests, out of which the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test are excellent in ideal conditions. The RT-PCR test is a molecular test for which swabs are taken from the far back of the nose and mouth, while the antibody test is done by collecting blood samples.
readmore03/7The case of false negatives
There have been a lot of reported cases of mild symptoms snowballing into a severe COVID illness as the diagnostic tests dismissed the presence of novel coronavirus. So, even when a patient has clear symptoms ofCOVID-19 and CT scan shows a clear indication of the disease, if the swab test is negative, the person cannot be admitted to designated COVID 19 hospitals.
Infact early research is indicating that as many as 30 per cent of patients are battling the problem of false negatives and with no direct mandate from the government, their only option is to practise caution and quarantine themselves for the safety of others. Infact as more and more people are getting tested for the virus, experts believe that the results may not be completely accurate.
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There have been a lot of reported cases of mild symptoms snowballing into a severe COVID illness as the diagnostic tests dismissed the presence of novel coronavirus. So, even when a patient has clear symptoms ofCOVID-19 and CT scan shows a clear indication of the disease, if the swab test is negative, the person cannot be admitted to designated COVID 19 hospitals.
Infact early research is indicating that as many as 30 per cent of patients are battling the problem of false negatives and with no direct mandate from the government, their only option is to practise caution and quarantine themselves for the safety of others. Infact as more and more people are getting tested for the virus, experts believe that the results may not be completely accurate.
readmore04/7Why are we getting false negatives
First things first. The problem with diagnostic tests for the SARS-CoV-2 virus is that it is has been bought into use without being tested extensively. This is because the sheer magnitude of the outbreak did not give enough time to the experts and tests had to be developed at a breakneck speed.
First things first. The problem with diagnostic tests for the SARS-CoV-2 virus is that it is has been bought into use without being tested extensively. This is because the sheer magnitude of the outbreak did not give enough time to the experts and tests had to be developed at a breakneck speed.
05/7The problem with collecting and processing specimens
Experts also believe that how the specimens are collected may have a lot to do with false negatives than the tests themselves. For example, if the swab of the nose is not taken correctly from the far back of the nose and the mouth (where the virus supposedly places itself in the mucous membranes), there may not be enough of virus in the sample to detect in the test.
Experts also believe that how the specimens are collected may have a lot to do with false negatives than the tests themselves. For example, if the swab of the nose is not taken correctly from the far back of the nose and the mouth (where the virus supposedly places itself in the mucous membranes), there may not be enough of virus in the sample to detect in the test.
06/7Another problem
Another problem is that if there is not a lot of virus in the cells in the nose swab as it may have moved to the lungs, it will again result in a false negative. This is because the virus may shed in different amounts and may not be present in the back of the throat or nose when the specimen is taken with the help of a long nasopharyngeal swab.
Moreover, if the sample is not studied before the viral RNA breaks down, it can again lead to a false negative. Yes, so even if the specimens are collected correctly, the test can show negative if it is not processed correctly.
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Another problem is that if there is not a lot of virus in the cells in the nose swab as it may have moved to the lungs, it will again result in a false negative. This is because the virus may shed in different amounts and may not be present in the back of the throat or nose when the specimen is taken with the help of a long nasopharyngeal swab.
Moreover, if the sample is not studied before the viral RNA breaks down, it can again lead to a false negative. Yes, so even if the specimens are collected correctly, the test can show negative if it is not processed correctly.
readmore07/7The takeaway
Experts believe that if even if you tested negative for the COVID 19 test but continue to display symptoms of the disease, you should isolate yourself and follow all the precautions as it is entirely possible that you may have got tested too soon for the virus to show up in swabs. It may usually take two false negatives tests (or three to four days after you have contracted the virus) for you to test positive for the disease.
Remember a negative test does not always mean that you don’t have the disease. If you have come in contact with a suspected coronavirus patient or develop telltale symptoms, it is strongly advisable to self-isolate and monitor your symptoms.
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Was the flu you had in December or January actually coronavirus? CDC has the answer
Experts believe that if even if you tested negative for the COVID 19 test but continue to display symptoms of the disease, you should isolate yourself and follow all the precautions as it is entirely possible that you may have got tested too soon for the virus to show up in swabs. It may usually take two false negatives tests (or three to four days after you have contracted the virus) for you to test positive for the disease.
Remember a negative test does not always mean that you don’t have the disease. If you have come in contact with a suspected coronavirus patient or develop telltale symptoms, it is strongly advisable to self-isolate and monitor your symptoms.
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Was the flu you had in December or January actually coronavirus? CDC has the answer
Was the flu you had in December or January actually coronavirus? CDC has the answer
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 1, 2020, 23:00 IST
01/4Was the flu you had in December or January actually coronavirus? CDC has the answer
Living with the coronavirus has become the new normal. It is hard not to listen or talk about it in everything we do, everywhere we go and everything we see. Even slightest of symptoms like cough, headache or even a sneeze is examined in a new light, knowing that COVID 19 could be the culprit - since its symptoms are similar to that of flu. And with the number of asymptomatic carriers being touted as higher than we ever expected, it makes us wonder if we have already 'caught and faught' the virus during the last bout of flu we suffered in late December or early January - as that was the time when coronavirus cases started coming to light.
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Living with the coronavirus has become the new normal. It is hard not to listen or talk about it in everything we do, everywhere we go and everything we see. Even slightest of symptoms like cough, headache or even a sneeze is examined in a new light, knowing that COVID 19 could be the culprit - since its symptoms are similar to that of flu. And with the number of asymptomatic carriers being touted as higher than we ever expected, it makes us wonder if we have already 'caught and faught' the virus during the last bout of flu we suffered in late December or early January - as that was the time when coronavirus cases started coming to light.
readmore02/4What reserachers have to say
According to the researchers, if someone has caught the coronavirus and could battle it like the flu, the good news is that they have developed some level of immunity against the virus. Getting to the bottom of last winter's cold could prove to be extremely valuable as we head to the possibility of the second wave of the virus.
According to the researchers, if someone has caught the coronavirus and could battle it like the flu, the good news is that they have developed some level of immunity against the virus. Getting to the bottom of last winter's cold could prove to be extremely valuable as we head to the possibility of the second wave of the virus.
03/4As per Center for Disease Control and Prevention
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if you look back at the symptoms of your flu during the winter season, you can pretty much rule out coronavirus.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if you look back at the symptoms of your flu during the winter season, you can pretty much rule out coronavirus.
04/4Verdict
Even if your symptoms occurred during the time frame of the first cases, the cases were very few during the earlier stage. The community spread started weeks later. So, you did not have coronavirus back in December or early January. But we all need to stay more vigilant and careful in order to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
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Coronavirus prevention: Experts feel you should AVOID touching this thing while shopping for grocery
Even if your symptoms occurred during the time frame of the first cases, the cases were very few during the earlier stage. The community spread started weeks later. So, you did not have coronavirus back in December or early January. But we all need to stay more vigilant and careful in order to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
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Coronavirus prevention: Experts feel you should AVOID touching this thing while shopping for grocery
Coronavirus prevention: Experts feel you should AVOID touching this thing while shopping for grocery
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 1, 2020, 19:38 IST
01/6Coronavirus prevention: Experts feel you should AVOID touching this thing while shopping for grocery
As India gears up for the 1st phase of the nationwide ‘unlock plan’ from June 8, more and more people are informing themselves on staying safe and minimizing the risk as they venture outdoors. We are living in the times of global pandemic and witnessing unprecedented changes in the way we used to lead our lives. As a result, even a minuscule task like grocery shopping, which did not require much afterthought before, needs thorough precautionary measures.
Since going to the grocery store is pretty much unavoidable, it is important to plan the trip properly and avoid as much exposure as possible. However, even as you take out your sanitizers and face-coverings, we inadvertently come in touch with one of the germiest spots at these grocery stores.
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As India gears up for the 1st phase of the nationwide ‘unlock plan’ from June 8, more and more people are informing themselves on staying safe and minimizing the risk as they venture outdoors. We are living in the times of global pandemic and witnessing unprecedented changes in the way we used to lead our lives. As a result, even a minuscule task like grocery shopping, which did not require much afterthought before, needs thorough precautionary measures.
Since going to the grocery store is pretty much unavoidable, it is important to plan the trip properly and avoid as much exposure as possible. However, even as you take out your sanitizers and face-coverings, we inadvertently come in touch with one of the germiest spots at these grocery stores.
readmore02/6The one item you shouldn’t touch at the grocery store
In addition to ensuring that you have a list handy and don’t do impulse shopping in a store, you also need to steer clear of touching things in the store unnecessarily. What tops the list of these items is the very shopping basket that you use to put items and take to the billing counter. If you think about it, it actually makes a lot of sense. The shopping basket and carts are one of the most highly-touched areas in a grocery store and no amount of sanitizing can completely reduce the chances of picking up pathogens.
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In addition to ensuring that you have a list handy and don’t do impulse shopping in a store, you also need to steer clear of touching things in the store unnecessarily. What tops the list of these items is the very shopping basket that you use to put items and take to the billing counter. If you think about it, it actually makes a lot of sense. The shopping basket and carts are one of the most highly-touched areas in a grocery store and no amount of sanitizing can completely reduce the chances of picking up pathogens.
readmore03/6Here is why
Another problem with the handles of these baskets and cart is that they are not touched briefly but customers use the same for an entire shopping trip. This makes them very easy to be a hotspot of germs and viruses and it is also difficult to do thorough sanitization of these bags, given their nooks and crevices. They also come in contact with your clothes and other personal items, paving way for further contamination.
Another problem with the handles of these baskets and cart is that they are not touched briefly but customers use the same for an entire shopping trip. This makes them very easy to be a hotspot of germs and viruses and it is also difficult to do thorough sanitization of these bags, given their nooks and crevices. They also come in contact with your clothes and other personal items, paving way for further contamination.
04/6What should you do instead
This one is a no-brainer. So, instead of reaching out for shopping bags or carts, carry your own cloth shopping bag from home. However, if you have bigger items which cannot fit in your cloth bag, it is always better to use shopping carts instead of bags. For starters, their handles can be sanitized with a disinfectant wipe and they can be kept at an optimum distance to avoid physical contact.
However, reserve the cart only for the items that you cannot carry in your own bag or backpack and keep the heavier items in the cart. This will reduce the risk of picking unwanted bacteria and viruses and avoid touching the unsanitized portions of the cart again and again.
readmore
This one is a no-brainer. So, instead of reaching out for shopping bags or carts, carry your own cloth shopping bag from home. However, if you have bigger items which cannot fit in your cloth bag, it is always better to use shopping carts instead of bags. For starters, their handles can be sanitized with a disinfectant wipe and they can be kept at an optimum distance to avoid physical contact.
However, reserve the cart only for the items that you cannot carry in your own bag or backpack and keep the heavier items in the cart. This will reduce the risk of picking unwanted bacteria and viruses and avoid touching the unsanitized portions of the cart again and again.
readmore05/6Plan your visit
Ultimately, the most important aspect of keeping yourself safe from COVID-19 still remains social distancing. So, plan your visit to avoid peak hours (preferably go early in the morning) and being surrounded by a lot of people. Wear face-coverings properly to cover your mouth and nose and sanitize your hands once you exit the shop.
Ultimately, the most important aspect of keeping yourself safe from COVID-19 still remains social distancing. So, plan your visit to avoid peak hours (preferably go early in the morning) and being surrounded by a lot of people. Wear face-coverings properly to cover your mouth and nose and sanitize your hands once you exit the shop.
06/6The bottom line
Also, make sure to clean and disinfect your shopping bag after every trip outdoors. When you enter your home empty the clothing bag and put it into the washer and wash your hands thoroughly. While there has been no direct link between food packages and contracting the infection, you may still wipe them with sanitizing wipes if you feel like.
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Salons and parlours are opening: Here are the precautionary measures that customers and staff must follow for a safe visit
Also, make sure to clean and disinfect your shopping bag after every trip outdoors. When you enter your home empty the clothing bag and put it into the washer and wash your hands thoroughly. While there has been no direct link between food packages and contracting the infection, you may still wipe them with sanitizing wipes if you feel like.
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Salons and parlours are opening: Here are the precautionary measures that customers and staff must follow for a safe visit
Salons and parlours are opening: Here are the precautionary measures that customers and staff must follow for a safe visit
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jun 1, 2020, 17:47 IST
01/8Salons and parlours are opening: Here are the precautionary measures that customers and staff must follow for a safe visit
The highly contagious novel coronavirus has infected close to 2 lakhs people in India and has resulted in more than 5,394 fatalities. After more than two months of nationwide lockdown, the country is gearing up to enter phase one of the three-phase unlock plan and it is safe to say a lot of planning needs to be done to ensure the safety of the people. This is especially important in industries which are highly tactile in their nature of servicing including salons and spas.
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The highly contagious novel coronavirus has infected close to 2 lakhs people in India and has resulted in more than 5,394 fatalities. After more than two months of nationwide lockdown, the country is gearing up to enter phase one of the three-phase unlock plan and it is safe to say a lot of planning needs to be done to ensure the safety of the people. This is especially important in industries which are highly tactile in their nature of servicing including salons and spas.
readmore02/8What all will open in phase 1 of the unlock plan
In the three phase ‘unlock’ plan, the centre has given a directive to open religious places, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, salons and beauty services and other hospitality services from June 8.
It is important to understand that since the beauty industry involves physical contact with the client such as during a spa, pedicure, manicure, waxing, threading or even while giving a haircut, strict hygiene and safety protocols must be followed. So, before you walk into your favourite salon for much-needed TLC or even to take care of that unkempt mane, greying hair and facial hair, there are certain guidelines you must follow.
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In the three phase ‘unlock’ plan, the centre has given a directive to open religious places, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, salons and beauty services and other hospitality services from June 8.
It is important to understand that since the beauty industry involves physical contact with the client such as during a spa, pedicure, manicure, waxing, threading or even while giving a haircut, strict hygiene and safety protocols must be followed. So, before you walk into your favourite salon for much-needed TLC or even to take care of that unkempt mane, greying hair and facial hair, there are certain guidelines you must follow.
readmore03/8Here is how the face of salons and spas may change in the first phase of unlock plan:
Call before you show up
Gone are the days of just barging in your parlour for a last minute-fix. As we all are collectively trying to stay safe and follow all the hygiene rules, the first step is to make an appointment. This will ensure that your spa/parlour has the space to accommodate you while following the social distancing norms.
Call before you show up
Gone are the days of just barging in your parlour for a last minute-fix. As we all are collectively trying to stay safe and follow all the hygiene rules, the first step is to make an appointment. This will ensure that your spa/parlour has the space to accommodate you while following the social distancing norms.
04/8Temperature checks will be the new normal
Another step to ensure everyone’s safety will be to log in the temperature before you enter the salon. Hand sanitizers and shoe covers may also be available right outside the door of the hospitality services. Some salons may also require Arogya Setu App to be installed in your phone and may even ask you to fill out a form stating your symptoms and travel history.
Another step to ensure everyone’s safety will be to log in the temperature before you enter the salon. Hand sanitizers and shoe covers may also be available right outside the door of the hospitality services. Some salons may also require Arogya Setu App to be installed in your phone and may even ask you to fill out a form stating your symptoms and travel history.
05/8The staff may wear PPE for extra safety
Since, saloons, parlours and spas involve high contact with the customer, the staff may don a PPE kit including face masks, face shields, gloves and shoe covers for maximum safety. The clients must wear face masks and face coverings as well.
Since, saloons, parlours and spas involve high contact with the customer, the staff may don a PPE kit including face masks, face shields, gloves and shoe covers for maximum safety. The clients must wear face masks and face coverings as well.
06/8High contact surfaces need to be cleaned after every service
Chair, table and equipments (whatever used) need to be sanitized after every client gets up. The staff member working with the client should wash his/her hands or discard the disposable gloves and wear fresh ones before tending to the next customer. Clients are also supposed to carefully discard their shoe covers in the bin. Additionally, whenever staying six-feet apart is not possible, the client and the staff may be separated with plexiglass to ensure the safety of both of them.
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Chair, table and equipments (whatever used) need to be sanitized after every client gets up. The staff member working with the client should wash his/her hands or discard the disposable gloves and wear fresh ones before tending to the next customer. Clients are also supposed to carefully discard their shoe covers in the bin. Additionally, whenever staying six-feet apart is not possible, the client and the staff may be separated with plexiglass to ensure the safety of both of them.
readmore07/8Some services may still not be available
Since no precaution and hygiene methods can ensure a hundred per cent safety, some services that require close contact with the client may still not be available including face waxing, eyebrows or threading.
Since no precaution and hygiene methods can ensure a hundred per cent safety, some services that require close contact with the client may still not be available including face waxing, eyebrows or threading.
08/8No more overbooking or waiting area
As the salons and parlours gear up to work with half of the staff strength, there will be limited customers inside the salons at any given time to ensure social distancing and avoid crowding. They will also dramatically cut down on the number of clients they see every day so an appointment is going to be a must. In case, you really have to wait, waiting in your car or outside the salon is strictly advisable.
- ETIMES/
- LIFESTYLE/
- HEALTH & FITNESS/
- CORONAVIRUS VACCINE UPDATE: POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT FOR INDIAN COVID-19 VACCINE, MODERNA MOVES TO SECOND PHASE TESTING
As the salons and parlours gear up to work with half of the staff strength, there will be limited customers inside the salons at any given time to ensure social distancing and avoid crowding. They will also dramatically cut down on the number of clients they see every day so an appointment is going to be a must. In case, you really have to wait, waiting in your car or outside the salon is strictly advisable.
- ETIMES/
- LIFESTYLE/
- HEALTH & FITNESS/
- CORONAVIRUS VACCINE UPDATE: POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT FOR INDIAN COVID-19 VACCINE, MODERNA MOVES TO SECOND PHASE TESTING
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