Q & A COVID-19
People of all ages can be infected with the novel coronavirus. Older people, and people with health problems (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease) will be more susceptible to becoming seriously ill.
WHO advises everyone to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, for example by washing their hands with soap and running water or if this is not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer (at least 60%).
source: WHO
The novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new type of coronavirus that causes a disease called COVID-19. Before it was known as COVID-19, the disease was known as the novel coronavirus 2019 or 2019-nCoV.
The novel coronavirus is a new virus, but it is similar to the family of viruses that causes SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and a number of common influences.
As of now, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat diseases caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms, and those who are seriously ill should be taken to hospital.
Most patients recover due to treatment for their symptoms. Some specific treatments are currently being researched, and are going through clinical trials. WHO is helping to accelerate research and development efforts with a number of partners.
Source: WHO
No, it doesn't. Hand dryers are not effective in killing the novel coronavirus. To protect yourself, you should clean your hands frequently with soap and running water or if not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer (at least 60%). After cleaning your hands, you should dry them using tissue paper or a warm air dryer.
Source: WHO
Yes. There is little chance of commercial goods being contaminated from an infected person and little risk of contracting the novel coronavirus from packages that have moved, been in transit, and exposed to different conditions and temperatures.
Source: WHO
Not. There is no evidence that regularly washing the nose with saline can protect people from infection with the new coronavirus. There is some limited evidence that regularly washing the nose with saline can help people recover more quickly from the common cold but it has not been shown to prevent respiratory infections.
source: WHO
Not. Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill a virus that has entered your body. Spraying such substances can actually damage clothing and mucous membranes (ie eyes, mouth). Be aware that alcohol and chlorine can be useful for disinfecting surfaces, but need to be used under proper recommendations.
source: WHO
Use a mask only when you cough or sneeze to protect others. If you do not have these symptoms, there is no need to wear a mask.
Wearing a mask is not enough to protect yourself from corona virus infection. Frequent hand washing with soap and running water is more effective at protecting yourself from infection.
The number of masks on the market is very limited and health workers must obtain masks in order to carry out their duties. We can help health workers work by not buying or using masks, especially when not coughing or sneezing.
COVID-19 is generally mild, especially in children and young adults. However, infection can also cause serious illness: about 1 in 5 infected people requires hospitalization. Therefore, it is natural for people to worry about the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on themselves and their loved ones. We can channel our worries by protecting ourselves, our loved ones and society.
The most important actions are diligently washing hands with soap and running water or if not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60%) and covering nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with folded elbows. In addition, stay up-to-date with information and follow the advice of the local health department including for travel, movement and meeting restrictions.
source: WHO
Disinfectant can clean the virus on the surface of objects and NOT on the body or clothes and WILL NOT protect you from the virus if in close contact with a sick person.
Viruses are transferred through coughing/sneezing droplets from sick people that are then inhaled by others or stick to the surface of objects that are then touched and then enter through the eyes, nose or mouth of others.
Disinfectant liquid can clean viruses that stick to the surface of objects such as tables, door handles or light switches that are often touched by people.
Cleaning these surfaces is especially important if you are self-isolating at home and to use disinfectant, make sure you read the instructions on the product label.
Applying disinfectant directly to your body can be harmful.
