Ministry of Health: is the loss of taste or smell a symptom of the Cornavirus?

Today, the Ministry of Health comes with an extremely important information for those who wonder if the recent information claiming that the loss of taste or smell represents a possible symptom of infection with the new Coronavirus.

The coronavirus is also found in asymptomatic people, and the Ministry of Health offers a complex explanation below for people's concerns, and it is good to read very carefully what is written there, because it could be of great help to you.

"The data that has appeared in recent days shows a possible link between the loss of smell and the infection with the coronavirus, but thorough studies are needed to establish how common this symptom is and at what stage of the infection it may occur.

The World Health Organization has not yet confirmed these data, but the American Academy of Otolaryngology recommends that self-isolation and testing for the coronavirus should be considered in case of loss of smell and in the absence of other conditions such as sinusitis, rhinitis or allergies. Until this information is confirmed, we must know that the most common symptoms of the disease COVID-19 are cough, fever and difficulty in breathing.
Temporary loss of smell (anosmia) is a common symptom in many respiratory viruses; viruses attack the nasal mucosa, causing congestion, increased nasal secretions and inflammation of the mucosa, where the olfactory receptors are located. Anosmia can also be caused by various allergies or treatment with antibiotics or blood pressure medications.

In recent days, loss of smell and taste have been reported in patients around the world who were later confirmed to be infected with the coronavirus, even though they had no other symptoms. In South Korea, where population testing is widespread, 30% of positive but asymptomatic patients experienced loss of smell and taste. Evidence has also emerged in other countries such as China, the US, Iran, Italy and Germany. Recognized experts in the UK and US say that loss of smell and taste can be indicators of asymptomatic coronavirus infection or can be considered early symptoms of the disease.

Don't forget: if you show symptoms specific to coronavirus infection (cough, fever, difficulty breathing), the first step is to call your family doctor and ask for directions. If he cannot be contacted, call the Department of Public Health in your county. In case of emergency call 112."