This previously unknown condition, COVID-19, came with a lot of uncertainties, confusion, health crisis, and the unprecedented times of a global pandemic. A high rate of transmission and unavailability of a cure or vaccine for this disease made the situation all the more critical. Amid this, common people are expected to come up with a myriad of questions related to their health and safety. Health experts at HJ Hospitals answered some of the top FAQs related to COVID-19 to clear the air. Read through the end to stay informed and share with your loved ones to spread awareness.

• Can lemon tea help prevent COVID-19 infection?

The effects of lemon tea against COVID-19 infection have not been proven by scientists yet. The antioxidants and vitamin C content present in lemon tea may help improve your immunity, further reducing your chances of contracting COVID-19. However, it should not be considered as a sure-shot way to prevent the disease. Preventive measures and other guidelines issued by your local authorities like maintaining a safe physical distance and wearing a face mask in public should be followed.

• Is shortness of breath a sign of COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a disease that is transmitted through contact and respiratory droplets and affects a person’s lungs at the advanced stages. Thus, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing are one of its serious symptoms. However, one should check if it is accompanied by other common symptoms like fever, dry cough and tiredness. Also, running out of breath after performing activities like heavy physical exercises, running, playing a sport, etc. is common and should not be considered as a warning sign. People having pre-existing conditions like asthma may also experience breathlessness which is not related to COVID-19. In case you experience shortness of breath or unexplained breathing problems, consult a health expert without delay for timely diagnosis and early intervention as they increase the chances of complete recovery.

• Which vitamin can help fight Coronavirus?

Doctors suggest taking a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, especially amid the current pandemic situation, to build immunity and prevent diseases. However, no specific vitamin or nutrient has been proven to prevent or treat COVID-19 infection. Since vitamin C helps improve the functioning of one’s immune system, you may include citrus fruits in your daily diet. However, one should not consume any vitamin or other supplement without consulting a certified health practitioner.

• Is it safe to visit a healthcare centre amid COVID-19 for other health concerns?

All the authorities and healthcare institutes around the globe are suggesting people stay at home and not visit public places, if not urgent. Many schools, colleges, shopping malls, movie theatres, corporate offices and other such places have been closed since the COVID-19 outbreak to control the spread of the disease. Amid this, people have been concerned about the safety of healthcare centres as they receive a high number of COVID-19 patients daily. However, in case of medical emergencies, a person has to and must seek assistance at the earliest.

Most of the equipped healthcare centres like HJ Hospitals are taking all the necessary steps to maintain a safe environment for their non-COVID patients, visitors and staff. HJ Hospitals has especially provisioned a separate facility to treat COVID-19 patients to maintain isolation. Thus, people of Kinshasa and nearby regions can visit us for health concerns ranging from eye problems and oral health concerns to stomach problems. You may also access our homecare services like teleconsultation, doctor’s visit at home and doorstep delivery of medicines.

Stay informed, stay indoors, stay safe!