World Health Organization has listed 10 basic things that you should know about coronavirus. With the outbreak of COVID – 19 all over the world there is a lot of information and health authorities advise a variety of precaution measures to the citizens. We want to summarize the recommendations of WHO about coronavirus which will help you be informed and prepared.
Basic things that you should know about coronavirus – Wash your hands
One of the most important things that people need to realize is that they need to wash their hands with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand rub. Touching your face after touching contaminated surfaces or sick people is one of the ways the coronavirus can be transmitted.
Clean surfaces regularly with disinfectant
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces prevents transmitting bacteria. From door knobs, handles, work desks, kitchen surfaces, smartphone, electronic devices – make sure you clean with disinfectant.
Basic things that you should know about coronavirus – filter the information
WHO advises to educate yourself about COVID – 19 and its symptoms. Make sure that your information comes from reliable sources: your local or national public health agency, the WHO website, or your local health professional. As per WHO, for most people, it starts with a fever and a dry cough, not a runny nose. Most people will have mild disease and get better without needing any special care.
Avoid traveling and protect yourself if you have to travel
WHO and Health authorities advise to avoid traveling if you have a fever or cough, and if you become sick while on a flight, inform the crew immediately and seek medical care.
Once you get home, make contact with a health professional and tell them about where you have been.
Avoid close contact with people suffering from a fever and cough. Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
When coughing cover sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands. If you choose to wear a face mask, be sure to cover mouth and nose and avoid touching mask once it’s on.
Eat only well-cooked food. Avoid spitting in public. Avoid close contact and travel with animals that are sick.
Protect others from getting sick
If you cough or sneeze, do it into your sleeve, or use a tissue. Dispose of the tissue immediately into a closed rubbish bin, and then clean your hands.
Health conditions that may lead to complications
If you are 60+ or if you have an underlying condition like cardiovascular disease, respiratory condition, diabetes you have a higher risk of developing severe COVID – 19. It is strongly recommended to avoid crowded areas or places where you might interact with people who are sick.
If you feel unwell, stay at home and call your doctor
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, where you have been and who you have had contact with. This will help to make sure you get the right advice and will prevent you from infecting others.
Protect your family members
If you are sick, stay at home, and eat and sleep separately from your family, use different utensils and cutlery to eat.
Seek medical care
If you develop shortness of breath, call your doctor and seek care immediately.
Stay calm and don’t panic
It is normal and understandable to feel anxious, especially if you live in a country or community that has been affected. Find out what you can do in your community. Discuss how to stay safe with your workplace, school or place of worship.
