After announcing that the risk of expansion of Covid-19 has gone from “high” to “very high” worldwide, thus equating the global situation to which China has lived since January, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, gave out these 10 tips for the various citizens to prevent the spread of the virus:
1. Wash your hands frequently with an antiseptic gel, or with soap and water if it is not available. The virus can be transmitted by touching diseased or contaminated surfaces, so this action reduces risks.
2. Regularly clean certain surfaces with disinfectant, such as desks at workplaces or in the kitchen.
3. Make sure that information about Covid-19 comes from reliable sources, such as national public health agencies, medical professionals, or the WHO itself. Know, for example, that the disease usually begins with fever or dry cough, not with nasal discomfort.
4. Avoid traveling if you have a fever or cough. Likewise, if you fall ill during a flight, immediately inform the crew, and once at home, contact health professionals, telling them where you have been.
5. Cough or sneeze on the arm sleeve (not on the hand) or use a handkerchief that should be thrown away immediately, and then wash your hands.
6. If you have more than 60 years or health problems such as cardiovascular, respiratory or diabetes disease, there is an increased risk of falling seriously ill due to a hypothetical infection, so extra precautions should be taken, avoiding crowded areas or places where it could having contact with potential patients.
7. If you feel unwell, stay home and call a doctor or healthcare professional, who should ask about the symptoms, where you have been and who you have had contact with.
8. In case of falling ill, stay at home, separated from the rest of the family, even when eating and sleeping, and use different cutlery and plates.
9. Call the doctor if you notice shortness of breath.
10. In case of living in an affected community, it is understandable to feel anxiety. Look for ways in which you can help with it and, at the same time, find out how to guarantee safety in workplaces, schools or places of worship.