World Health Organization advice for avoiding spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Hygiene advice

· Clean hands frequently with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand rub.

· Wash hands after coughing or sneezing; when caring for the sick; before, during and after food preparation; before eating; after using the toilet; when hands are visibly dirty; and after handling animals or waste.

· Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

· Avoid touching your hands, nose and mouth. Do not spit in public.

· Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing. Discard the tissue immediately and clean your hands.

Medical advice

· Avoid close contact with others if you have any symptoms.

· Stay at home if you feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache and runny nose, to avoid potential spread of the disease to medical facilities and other people.

· If you develop serious symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) seek medical care early and contact local health authorities in advance.

· Note any recent contact with others and travel details to provide to authorities who can trace and prevent spread of the disease.

· Stay up to date on COVID-19 developments issued by health authorities and follow their guidance.

Mask and glove usage

· Healthy individuals only need to wear a mask if taking care of a sick person.

· Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.

· Masks are effective when used in combination with frequent hand cleaning.

· Do not touch the mask while wearing it. Clean hands if you touch the mask.

· Learn how to properly put on, remove and dispose of masks. Clean hands after disposing of the mask.

· Do not reuse single-use masks.

· Regularly washing bare hands is more effective against catching COVID-19 than wearing rubber gloves.

· The COVID-19 virus can still be picked up on rubber gloves and transmitted by touching your face.

Source: WHO