Covid 19

General Information

What is Covid 19?

Covid19 is part of a group of viruses called Coronaviruses. It is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While most human Coronaviruses only cause mild to moderate flu-like respiratory illnesses in humans, symptoms of more recent coronaviruses like Covid 19, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV can cause fatality.

How can I get it?

You can get the virus

If an infected person near you sneezes, coughs or speaks without covering his or her mouth and nose. The virus is carried through the air in tiny droplets which can enter your nose, mouth and eyes.
If you touch a surface that an infected person has touched or sneezed and/or coughed on, and then touch your eyes, mouth or nose.
Through physical contact with an infected person such as shaking hands. There is high risk of both large-scale air and physical transmission in crowded place, especially if these place are not well ventilated.

How do I know I have it?

The symptoms are similar that of influenza and include, but are not restricted to:

Common symptoms

Severe symptoms

Difficulty breathing
Diarrhoea
Nausea or vomiting

How can I protect myself and others?

You can protect yourself and others by:

Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; always use a disposable tissue or the inside of your elbow
washing your hands with soap and running water or using an alcohol base hand sanitizer
not touching your eyes, mouth or nose unless you have washed or disinfected your hands
keeping a one metre or more distance between you and others if possible
avoiding large gatherings
cleaning all surfaces regularly with soap and water or disinfectant
avoiding all forms of physical contact with an infected person and people outside your immediate family
Wearing a protective face mask when you visit public places or caring for an infected person
If possible, stay at home, especially if are sick or feel sick
If you are hypertensive or have heart disease, lung disease or are diabetic, take added precautions