Coronavirus scare: Here’s what you can do to avoid infections

Tribune Web Desk
Chandigarh, March 3

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The global outbreak of coronavirus has reached India, with the sixth case of the virus being confirmed in Rajasthan.

So far the deadly virus called COVID-19 has claimed 3,100 lives, with some 90,000 infections reported globally. The virus has wreaked havoc internationally, set off panic over its impact on global economies and even cast a shadow over the Tokyo Olympics.

Here are World Health Organization’s guidelines on how you can ensure you and your family are safe.

Wash your hands frequently

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

Maintain social distancing

Maintain a distance of at least three feet between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.  When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth

 Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Practice respiratory hygiene

Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.

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

Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.