COVID-19 is still affecting a lot of people in China with some outbreaks in other countries. Most people can be infected and experience mild illness and recover. However, other people may experience a severe situation. You can simply protect yourself as well as other people doing the following:

Wash your hands frequently

Regular and thorough use of an alcohol-based hand rub can be effective. Washing them with soap and water will protect you as well.

Why? Using alcohol-based hand rub or washing your hands with water and soap kills the viruses that may be on your hands.

Keep social distancing

Keep at least 1 metre distance between yourself and anyone who is sneezing or coughing.

Why? When someone coughs or sneezes, he/she spreads small liquid droplets from his/her nose or mouth that may contain coronavirus. Being too close as well as breathing in the droplets can get you infected. The droplets may include the COVID-19 virus if the person sneezing has the disease.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose and mouth

Why? When you touch many surfaces, you can pick up viruses.  Hands can transfer the virus to the eyes, nose and mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you ill.

Practice respiratory hygiene

Make sure you, and those around you, follow correct Respiratory Hygiene. This means that you should cover your nose and mouth with tissue or your bent elbow when you sneeze or cough. Then dispose of the used tissue urgently.

Why? Droplets will spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you can simply protect yourself and the people around you against dangerous viruses such as cold, flu and also COVID-19.

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, get medical care as soon as possible

If you feel sick, stay at home. If you have a fever, cough and Difficulty Breathing, get medical care soon, call in advance. Follow the directions recommended by your national health authority.

Why? National authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation.. Calling before you go to the hospital will allow your health care provider to rapidly direct you to the right health facility. Besides, this can protect you and help prevent spread of viruses.

Stay up to date and follow advice given by your doctor

Stay informed on the latest developments about coronavirus. Follow advice given by your doctor, your national and local public health authority on how to protect yourself and other people against COVID-19

Why? National authorities have the most up to date information about the spread of COVID-19 in your area. They are the best persons to advise about the protective measures in your area.

 *If you are in or have been in the areas where the virus is spreading you should:

• Follow the guidance outlined above.

• Stay at home if you don’t feel well, even with mild symptoms including slight runny nose and headache, until you recover.
• If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, get medical advice and care promptly because this may be due to a respiratory infection.