With the recent outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are providing information regarding the transmission, symptoms and the disease itself.
Most people (about 80%) get a mild illness like a cold.
- Those more at risk of a severe illness are the elderly, those with other diseases such as diabetes/heart lung /kidney and those whose immune system has been compromised.
- If you are unwell get tested immediately. Go to the dhhs website for testing sites near you. There is one at the showgrounds.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Some also get headaches, nasal congestion or a runny nose
Reducing transmission
It is important to reduce transmission. This can be done by:
- Wearing a mask if required by authorities.
- Cough into the crook of your arm.
- Throw used tissues away.
- Avoid kissing/handshakes/hugs – greet with an elbow.
- Social distancing – keep at least 1.5 meters from others.
- Wash hands frequently preferably with soap and water for about the time it takes you to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
- Wash hands after blowing your nose/coughing/sneezing.
- Wash hands after you use the toilet.
- Wash hands before and after eating.
- Wash hands before during and after preparing food.
- Wash hands after touching or feeding your pet.
- Wash hands after visiting public places eg. public transport/shopping centres/gyms.
- Dry hands with a paper towel in public bathrooms.
- At home wash hand towels frequently, sick people should have their own towels and should be isolated to one area of the residence.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Reduce close physical contact with anyone who is unwell.
- Avoid touching your face especially if you have not washed your hands recently.
If you are unwell please get tested, stay at home and self- isolate to help keep everybody safe.
