Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and which has now been detected in numerous locations worldwide. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).

SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms of infection with the new coronavirus may appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include shortness of breath, cough, fever and difficulty breathing. It is similar to severe infections with other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza.

MINIMISE RISK

It is not known exactly how contagious the new coronavirus is at the moment or how it spreads but seems to be passed on by those in close contact and may be spread by respiratory droplets released when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes.

You will be more likely to be at risk from the new coronavirus;

• If you recently travelled to China.
• If you have been in close contact with someone who has the new coronavirus.
• If you are elderly or you have an existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

However it should be noted that there is still a lot of unknown aspects to this virus at the moment.

PREVENTION

There is no vaccine available to prevent infection from the new coronavirus but you can take steps to reduce your risk of infection by following the World Health Organization’s standard recommendations (click here) for avoiding respiratory viruses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use a tissue when you cough to cover your mouth and nose.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
• Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you're sick.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that you often touch.
• Stay home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.
• If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing then contact our sergury, and inform us about any recent travels.
• In areas that have recently had cases of the coronavirus;
• Avoid contact with live animals and areas they have touched in live markets.
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or animal organs.

TRAVEL

If you're planning to travel internationally, first check travel advisories from the department of health. Contact us if you are travelling to an infected area and you have a health condition where you are more susceptible to respiratory infections and complications.