What is COVID-19 and how can I protect myself?

Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that affect the respiratory system. The disease coronavirus outbreak is named COVID-19 began in Wuhan, China in 2019. In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

The COVID-19 virus mainly spreads from person to person among those in close contact. The virus spreads by respiratory droplets released when someone infected with the virus coughs, sneezes, breathes or talks. These droplets can be inhaled or land in the mouth, nose or eyes of a person nearby. The virus can also spread if you touch a surface with the virus on it and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure

• The most common signs and symptoms are:
  *Fever
  *Cough
  *Tiredness
  *Loss of taste or smell
  
  
• Other signs and symptoms may include:
  *Shortness of breath
  *Muscle aches
  *Chills
  *Sore throat
  *Headache
  *Chest pain
  *Diarrhea
  *Vomiting and nausea

Can COVID-19 be prevented?

• A vaccine might prevent you from getting COVID-19 or prevent you from becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 if you get the COVID-19 virus.
• Using masks in public may help reduce the spread from people who don't have symptoms.

What can I do to protect myself and others from COVID-19?

• Keep at least 2 meters of distance between yourself and people outside your household.
• Avoid crowds and indoor places.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available
• Wear a mask in public places.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect often-touched surfaces daily.

What can I do if I have or may have COVID-19?

• Stay at home except to get medical care.
• Avoid public transportation and taxis.
• Wear face mask around other people.
• Isolate yourself as much as possible from other people in your home.
• Use a separate bedroom and bathroom if possible.
• Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items.
• Clean and disinfect often-touched surfaces daily.