Key facts about COVID-19
What is COVID-19 and how does it spread?
The Coronavirus, COVID-19, is highly infectious. It spreads through contact with people who already have the virus, usually through inhaling infected droplets when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes. You can also get infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, mouth or nose.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms include fever, cough, diarrhea and shortness of breath. They may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the Coronavirus. Some people who have contracted the virus might not show symptoms.
The reported illness ranges from mild to severe. The virus may cause severe illness and sometimes death, in case of a weaker immune system. Older people and people with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer, are particularly at risk.
What are the prevention measures?
General safety measures
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General household cleaning
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Washing hands
Needs to be done:
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Safety measures to take if someone in the household is in quarantine or sick:
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How to use a mask according to the World Health Organization (WHO) ?
- Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Cover mouth and nose with a mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
- Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not reuse single-use masks.
- Remove the mask from behind. Do not touch the front. Discard immediately in a closed bin. Clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- It is necessary to wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
- Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
How to deal with stress during COVID-19:
It is normal to feel overwhelmed, distressed and fearful during the pandemic. But the responsibility to combat the virus if collective, and does not fall on you alone. Communicate about COVID-19. Everyone shall take part in fighting against it. Share your concern and worries with the others, so you understand the risks collectively. It is important for employers to discuss and come up with a safe and feasible plan with you.
Social distancing is important. Know your capacity and limit, as when you are aware of possibilities, risks, and protection measures, it will be easier to stay calm: be alert but do not panic. Follow the public health guidelines. Employers shall respect that you are trying your best to protect yourself and your families’ safety.