COVID-19

Published: 09 March 2020

The following is taken from the most recent World Health Organisation’s website which is being updated regularly. For more information go to any of the WHO.int, NHS or GOVE.COM sites

Protecting against Coronavirus [COVID-19]

1. Wash your hands frequently
   Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. 
2. Maintain social distancing
   Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. 
3. Practice respiratory hygiene
   Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. 
4. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
   Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority. 
5. Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider
   Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. 
6. Protection measures for persons who are in or have recently visited (past 14 days) areas where COVID-19 is spreading 
• Follow the guidance outlined above. 
• Stay at home if you begin to feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache and slight runny nose, until you recover. Why? Avoiding contact with others and visits to medical facilities will allow these facilities to operate more effectively and help protect you and others from possible COVID-19 and other viruses. 
• If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. Call in advance and tell your provider of any recent travel or contact with travellers. Why? Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.