|  | | | | | | | | | What you need to know about the coronavirus today | | | | | | The many health problems caused by COVID-19
Scientists are only starting to grasp the vast array of health problems caused by the novel coronavirus, some of which may have lingering effects on patients and health systems for years to come, doctors and infectious disease experts say. Besides the respiratory issues that leave patients gasping for breath, the virus that causes COVID-19 attacks many organ systems, in some cases causing catastrophic damage.
The battle to tame seasonal flu
As South America’s winter sets in, health officials and doctors are beefing up inoculation programs to head off a potential spike in seasonal flu that could overwhelm hospitals already straining under the coronavirus pandemic. Coupled with regional lockdowns, the inoculation drive has so far helped keep rates of seasonal respiratory disease low, even as cases of COVID-19 rise, according to doctors and recent government data.
Toilet paper hoarding is back
Australia’s supermarket chains reintroduced purchase limits on toilet paper and other household items as a spike in coronavirus cases in the state of Victoria set off a fresh round of panic-buying over fears of a new stay-at-home order. Woolworths and Coles, which together account for two-thirds of Australian grocery sales, said they were once again limiting purchases of toilet roll and paper towels to one or two packs per person after photos circulated on social media showing empty shelves in stores.
“Connected” face mask for the new normal
As face coverings become the norm during the coronavirus pandemic, Japanese startup Donut Robotics has developed an internet-connected “smart mask” that can transmit messages and translate from Japanese into eight other languages. The white plastic “c-mask” fits over standard face masks and connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone and tablet application that can transcribe speech into text messages, make calls, or amplify the mask wearer’s voice. | | | | | | | | | | | | Reuters reporters and editors around the world are investigating the response to the coronavirus pandemic.
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