Are you at-risk of Novel Coronavirus infection (COVID-19)?
It just takes 1 minute to know your risk
Ask Specialist
Book a slot to get tested in the comfort of your car, at the clinic or at home
You can now book an appointment with a specialist to make health screening
The symptoms and signs of 2019 Novel Coronavirus infection are largely related to respiratory issues
Here, DoctorOnCall will document the chronology of the COVID-19 outbreak as a record for the future
Our doctors are ready to answer your questions for free.
Find out steps to prevent Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
What is the 2019 Novel Coronavirus?
2019 Novel Coronavirus is a new type of respiratory virus from the coronavirus family which was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
What are the symptoms of an infected person?
Symptoms of infected persons are such as:
- Fever
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Body ache
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Runny nose
How deadly is the virus?
The virus can cause mild symptoms to severe complications such as respiratory failure and even death.
Why is it called Novel Coronavirus?
Novel means new and Novel Coronavirus means a new type of coronavirus that has not been identified previously.
How long does it take for symptoms to appear?
It can take up to 14 days before the first symptom can appear.
Is there a treatment or cure for this virus?
The 2019 Coronavirus is currently being treated with the same medications used on HIV patients in China.
How many deaths has been caused by this virus?
As up to 30/01/2020, the official death figure released by WHO is at 170 people.
Does infection by this virus means death?
It does not necessarily cause death to people as currently there are more than 8000 positive infected people but only 170 deaths recorded so far.
Who is at risk?
Children, old people, pregnant women, cancer and chronic illness patients, people with long-term respiratory illness and people travelling to China or with close contact with suspected/confirmed patients.
Can it infect healthy people?
Yes it can.
Should I avoid certain food?
Eat a healthy and balanced diet and avoid exotic food or imported food and food from dirty restaurants/stalls.
Should I avoid consuming food imported from China?
There is no evidence to suggest all food imported from China poses risk of transmitting the virus. As for now, it is better to consume locally produced food.
Does taking vitamin C help?
There is no evidence to suggest the role of vitamin C in fighting off the infection.
What kind of supplement should I take?
There are no supplements or products advisable for people to take regarding this outbreak as there is no evidence to support any of the supplements or products sold out there.
How bad is the situation of this infection in Malaysia?
Currently there are only 7 positive cases recorded but no death regarding this infection here in Malaysia so far.
How can I assess myself from home before visiting the hospital if I am unwell?
You can use a home thermometer and if you have one of the symptoms plus with close contact with people from China or have recently travelled from/to China in the last 14 days, you should seek immediate medical help.
Which hospitals can I go to if I feel unwell?
You can go to any government or private hospital if you are feeling unwell.
Can I collect my own phlegm to be sent for testing?
If you cook an infected animal, can it kill the virus?
Can I still travel to China or Hong Kong?
Can antibiotics kill this virus?
What is the role of DoctorOnCall during this outbreak?
Where can I find more information or updates about 2019 Coronavirus?
Tribute to Our Heroes
Leave your message to the doctors, nurses and health personnel fighting COVID-19