In order to try and flatten the curve and lower the healthcare burden, all countries currently affected by the Coronavirus have taken a similar stance regarding potential cases. Unless you present with breathing difficulties, persistent fever or are vulnerable due to age or health status, it is recommended that you stay in the confines of your own home and try and cope with your symptoms yourself using over-the-counter medication. The UK, in particular, has recommended that people with any symptoms (ranging from mild to severe) take Ibuprofen regularly, since it is particularly effective against raised temperature and bodily pain.

However, those of you diligently glued to your computers awaiting updates on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) will have stumbled across some recent worrying anecdotes. According to the French health minister and a number of other sources, treating the unpleasant symptoms with anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen, Aspirin and Cortisone can exacerbate the Coronavirus .

This paradoxical reaction has been witnessed in a number of patients, and is not only confined to the elderly or those with pre-existing health vulnerabilities. It appears that the comsumption of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that possess strong anti-inflammatory properties is capable of significantly worsening the state of young, healthy patients too.