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