Protective Measures to Stay Safe from the Coronavirus

Coronavirus (Covid-19) is the latest in a long line of infectious disease threats that have garnered the attention of the public and health officials around the world.  At the time of writing this, there have been over 94,000 cases reported, with the death toll standing at just over 3,200.

An outbreak such as this requires that we give it proper attention, so it does not become a true pandemic event.  We all need to take responsibility for our own well-being and that of others.

Take care of your health and protect others by doing the following:

1. Wash your hands frequently

Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.  This kills viruses that may be on your hands.

2.  Maintain social distancing

Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.  A cough or sneeze contains liquid droplets that may contain a virus.  If you’re too close you can breathe in the droplets, including the Covid-19 virus if the person coughing/sneezing has the disease.

3.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Your hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses.  Once contaminated, your hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose and mouth, and from there, enter your body making you sick.

4.  Practice respiratory hygiene

Ensure that you cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.  Dispose of used tissues immediately.

5.  If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early

If you feel unwell, do not go to work.  If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance, then follow the directions of your local health authority.  This is because they will have the most up-to-date information on the situation in your area.

Additional Information

Use the 111 coronavirus service.

Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.

NHS 111 also has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do.

Use this service if:

• you think you might have coronavirus
• in the last 14 days you've been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see our coronavirus advice for travellers
• you've been in close contact with someone with coronavirus

For more information on Coronavirus, click here.