Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.
About the Coronavirus
January 29, 2020
On 31 December 2019, the World Health Organisation (WHO) China Country Office was informed of cases of pneumonia of unknown cause detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China. A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was identified as the causative virus by Chinese authorities on 7 January. Since then a number of cases outside China have been confirmed.
The coronavirus is similar to the common influenza virus. Symptoms include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, similar to the common influenza virus, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
Less contagious than the common influenza virus, coronavirus is transmitted via droplets (coughing or sneezing) and via contaminated surfaces. The WHO has shared some helpful information on how to reduce your risk of infection. Up to date information on the coronavirus outbreak including suggested precautions and travel advisory notices is available from: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus.
Advice for Allianz Care customers
- Get the annual influenza vaccine as soon as possible.
- Observe all recommendations from local government.
- If possible, avoid travelling to affected areas in China.
- If you live in an affected area, stay home as much as possible.
- If you are returning from an affected area watch out for symptoms such as a cough, fever and sore throat. Call your doctor if you experience these symptoms. Do not go to a hospital.
All customers are fully covered for tests and treatments for coronavirus infection and any resulting complications. If a customer has a confirmed coronavirus diagnosis and an international standard of treatment is not available locally, customers will be evacuated to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
Dr. Ulrike Sucher, Medical Director
Our partner WorldAware, provider of travel security services to Allianz Care members, is monitoring the situation closely.
For up to date intelligence alert, click here.
For up to date intelligence alert, click here.
Source: World Health Organisation
