Asymptomatic definition: What does asymptomatic mean?

Coronavirus cases are continuing to grow around the world, with more than a quarter of the world’s population in lockdown measures to tackle the spread of the virus. Only those who have key jobs must still go to work, and anyone with symptoms must self-isolate for seven days.

As the virus continues to wreak havoc on our everyday lives, the UK is pushing for testing kits to become more widely available.

Due to the unknowns of coronavirus – COVID-19 – testing, vaccinations and a cure are all still being understood by scientists.

Symptoms are clearer, with a cough, fever and shortness of breath being the first signs of coronavirus.

More severe symptoms can impact some people, with pneumonia and organ failure reported in some patients.

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What does asymptomatic mean?

One word being discussed a lot in scientific communities and in the Prime Minister’s daily briefing is asymptomatic.

Asymptomatic is defined by the medical encyclopaedia as there being no symptoms.

You are considered asymptomatic if you:

  • Have recovered from an illness or condition and no longer have symptoms
  • Have an illness or condition (such as early stage high blood pressure or glaucoma) but do not have symptoms of it

You can be a carrier of a disease and show no symptoms. You may also still be able to infect others.

With some people displaying no symptoms of coronavirus, it could be likely the cases around the world are much higher than currently counted.

This is why measures like a lockdown are instrumental in preventing further spread of the virus.

Testing is another vital element of tackling the spread of coronavirus, however, there is a global shortage of tests it was revealed today.

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England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty said in the daily coronavirus briefing from Downing Street: “We do not have sufficient testing and this is a global problem because basically every country is wanting this new test, for a disease that wasn’t actually being tested for anywhere three months ago.

“There is a global shortage and that’s a bottleneck for us.”

Professor Whitty added any test being deployed as part of the response to the coronavirus crisis had to be reliable, because a bad test was worse than no test at all.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Government was “massively ramping up” testing for coronavirus.

He also announced 405,000 people have now signed up as volunteers to help vulnerable people.

Mr Johnson said it was hoped “very soon” 250,000 tests would be carried out each day.

At the time of writing, there were 8,705 cases of coronavirus across the UK, and 427 of those have died.

A total of 135 people have recovered from the virus, and the UK is continuing to face strict measures in an attempt to contain the spread.

Britons cannot leave their homes unless to attend vital jobs, buy groceries or care for someone.

One daily trip outside for exercise is permitted, however, if doing so you must keep your distance from anyone else you see.

Do you have any questions about the coronavirus, self-isolating or the Government lockdown?

Get in touch with us and Express.co.uk will ask an expert to find the answers for you. Email your question to [email protected]

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