COVID-19 human receptors 

International institutions, including Imperial College London, have so far identified likely initial infection points for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19) in the nose and eyes. Receptors were also found in the intestines and in vital organs such as the heart.

Heart tissue damage

Heart tissue damage and consequent heart failure is observed in up to 20 percent of COVID-19 patients. 

Goblet and ciliated cells

The findings, published in  Nature Medicine, highlight two specific cell types in the nose – called goblet and ciliated cells, as likely initial infection points for COVID-19. These cells have high levels of the entry proteins that the COVID-19 virus uses to get into human cells.

Key proteins

SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus requires two key proteins, called ACE2 and TMPRSS2, to enter human cells. The first is a receptor protein that the virus can dock to, while the second is a so-called protease that activates viral entry into the cell.

Facemasks 

Wearing of high-quality facemasks remains critical 

Conventional non-textile facemasks (including HN95 grade masks) can only be worn ONCE.  After use non-textile non-washable facemasks MUST be incinerated or disposed of in hazard material containers

3-layer textile facemasks (the preferred facial protective) are now manufactured and available in South Africa (www.medworx.co.za )