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We may be locked up again, but with community positivity at an all-time high, the chances of becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2 are higher than ever.
So what do we do when we come in contact with a case? What do we do when we become the next case? How do we protect those around us and how do we protect ourselves? Has anything changed compared to what we knew about last spring?
We asked the lady for answers to these and other equally vital questions. Anastasia Kotanidou, professor of Pneumology and Intensive Care at the University of Athens and director of the Evangelismos ICU, in a nightly interview that was conducted by phone and was interrupted several times by her call for service. 
What exactly are we facing this time?
“In the current phase of the second wave of the pandemic, the virus appears to be transmitted more easily than the first. Europe is dominated by a strain that, thanks to a mutation, appears to have higher transmissibility and is associated with lower mortality. Although the second characteristic is more theoretical at the moment … In any case, it is a virus that is transmitted very easily ”.
Has anything changed in what we know about the way it is transmitted?
“No. But we must realize how easy it is to become infected with SARS-CoV-2. It is transmitted through aerosols that are produced when we speak, breathe, sing. We all emit aerosols with speech, some less and others more. In other words, this virus is transmitted through breath droplets. If you want, you can easily find out by placing a mirror a short distance from your mouth while talking. You will be surprised how many droplets are trapped in the mirror! recommendations that insist on keeping your distance, the widespread use of the mask and hand hygiene. You do not need to do anything magical to prevent the virus from infecting you: as long as you follow these simple instructions, which become even more important now that the The climate forces us to spend more time indoors. “Without the protection of the mask, 20 minutes indoors is enough to become infected if there is a virus carrier next to us or in front of us.” 
Suppose we are informed that we have come into contact with a positive case. Then what do we do? Are they going to examine us? So should we do a PCR test?
“No. The test is recommended when someone has come into contact with a case without precaution and cannot enter quarantine. That is, if after such contact one can remain isolated at home for 14 days there is no reason to go to be examined It should be noted here that if distances have been kept in contact with the suitcase and a mask has been used, the chances of someone getting infected are greatly reduced ” 
Suppose someone has symptoms of a virus. What do you do in this case?
“In any virus, it is good that the patient is isolated to protect their family members and of course their caregivers so that they take the appropriate measures to avoid infection. That is, wear a mask, wash your hands well, ventilate the patient’s room, stay as far as possible. Of course, when there are symptoms, the test will show if it is COVID-19 or another virus. “
What are the most common symptoms of COVID-19?
“The vast majority of people who get sick after being infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop a fever. It can even be high, that is, thirty-nine or forty. Misery and pay are also characteristic symptoms of the disease that they occur very frequently. In smaller percentages of patients there is anosmia, headache, diarrhea. “Young children often have a sore throat.”
So if we have symptoms and the PCR test is positive, what do we do? Do we inform our doctor? Our Contacts?
“The monitoring and updating of the contacts of the cases is carried out, in any case, by the competent persons.” As a confirmed case, we stay at home so as not to put others at risk, we protect our relatives by remaining isolated, we inform our doctor and we follow his instructions. “
What will the doctor recommend? Do we need to do any other special tests, like a chest X-ray?
“Most patients will develop mild illness and will only need to stay home and take the usual antipyretics and pain relievers. Drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended to treat discomfort. There is no need for X-rays, CT scans or anything else. It just takes patience and effort to control symptoms. “
How long can the fever last?
“There is no fixed period. The fever usually lasts a week, but it can reach 10 or even 14 days.”
Even when the fever lasts a long time, shouldn’t we be alarmed? When should you go to the hospital?
“The duration of the fever is not an indication that we should take ourselves to the hospital. The worrying symptom is shortness of breath.” If there is an oximeter in the house, a device that measures oxygen saturation, a measurement below 94 % is a reason for hospitalization “.
Compared to the onset of the pandemic, has it made it easier for patients to manage symptoms in hospitals?
“The first wave experience, both our own and that of our colleagues internationally, really allows us to deal with the disease more effectively.” 
What do you expect from drugs that are in clinical trials?
“There are drugs that look really promising, but their effectiveness is directly related to the timing of their administration: the faster they are administered in the course of the disease, the more effective they are.” That is why I will not tire of repeating that the best “medicine” is prevention “.
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