DO THE FIVE Help stop coronavirus
1. HANDS Wash them often
2. ELBOW Cough into it
3. FACE Don't touch it
4. SPACE Keep safe distance
5. HOME Stay if you can
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.
Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
Take steps to protect others
- Stay home if you're sick - Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose - with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (throw used tissues in the trash) or use the inside of your elbow.
- Wear a facemask if you are sick - You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider's
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily - This includes phones, tables, light switches, doorknobs, countertops, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- Clean the dirty surfaces - Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
- Stay informed about the local COVID-19 situation - Get up-to-date information about local COVID-19 activity from public health officials.
- Dedicated, lined trash can - If possible, dedicate a lined trash can for the ill person. Use gloves when removing garbage bags, and handling & disposing of trash.