What is COVID 19 (Coronavirus)?

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.

How can the spread of COVID-19 be slowed down or prevented?

As with other respiratory infections like the flu or the common cold, public health measures are critical to slow the spread of illnesses. Public health measures are everyday preventive actions that include:

✓ staying home when sick;

✓ covering mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissue immediately;

✓ washing hands often with soap and water; and

✓ cleaning frequently touched surfaces and objects. As we learn more about COVID-19 public health officials may recommend additional actions

In light of the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and the global efforts to contain it, it is vital that all of us do our part to help stop the spread of the virus. The exponential spread has paralyzed the global economy and education systems. We all need to work together to stop the spread as soon as possible.

Distance makes the heart grow fonder and helps to the spread of COVID-19! Lets Protect ourselves and our community. 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.

References:

https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/key-messages-and-actions-for-covid-19-prevention-and-control-in-schools-march-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=baf81d52_4

https://www.youthlead.org/resources/covid-19-coronavirus-outbreak-things-you-need-know