With the recent outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are providing information regarding the transmission, symptoms and the disease itself.
Illness
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.
- Phone your GP if you are unwell. DO NOT go to your clinic without phoning first.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Some also get headaches, nasal congestion or a runny nose
Currently the definition of a suspect case is
1. If you have the above symptoms (some or all)
PLUS
2a. You have travelled overseas within the previous 2 weeks OR
2b. You have had close contact* with a proven case of COVID-19
If you have no symptoms despite contact there is no point is testing as these will come back negative even though you may still be incubating the virus.
Reducing transmission
It is important to reduce transmission to prevent too many seriously sick people at the same time. This would overwhelm the health system.
- Cough into the crook of your arm.
- Throw used tissues away.
- Avoid kissing/handshakes/hugs – greet with an elbow.
- Social distancing – try to keep about 1-1.5 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.
- Air drying is fine but allow hands to dry thoroughly.
- At home wash hand towels frequently, sick people should have their own towels.
- 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 stay at home and self- isolate to help keep everybody safe.
