COVID-19 Coronavirus update

With COVID-19 Corona Virus affecting an increasing number of people in the UK, we’d like to remind you of the precautions you should be taking.

What is COVID-19?:

• COVID-19 is a virus which is part of the coronaviruses which are common across the world.

Signs and symptoms?:

• These include cough, fever, shortness or breath or flu-like symptoms. Most people have mild symptoms.

What to do to reduce the risk of getting it:

• Always carry tissues with you to cover your mouth  when you cough or sneeze, then bin the tissue. If you don’t have a tissue use your elbow.
• Wash your hands with soap (or hand sanitiser if you are away from a sink), for 20 seconds each time – particularly when you:
• After travelling to work, home or visiting friends / relatives
• Blow your nose
• Handle food or eat
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who aren’t well

Is hand sanitiser effective?

• Washing using soap and water is the best way, however if you can’t get to a sink hand sanitiser should be used if available.

Should I shake hands?

• Government guidance does not yet recommend you stop shaking hands, but this is your decision and it is reasonable to only touch elbows or wash your hands afterwards

Should I wear a face mask?

• Face masks are very important in clinical settings but there’s very little evidence they help in general use

What should I do if I feel unwell?

• Do not go to your GP or hospital
• The majority of people will have mild symptoms and will not need any medical attention but if your symptoms are getting severe call 111 and they will advise you

When should I self-isolate?

• If you have been told to by 111 or other clinicians
• If you have been tested for COVID-19 and you’re waiting for the result
• If you have recently travelled abroad to China (Wuhan and Hubei province), Iran, the Republic of Korea (Daego or Cheongdo) or Italy

Information sources as at 11^th March 2020 11.30am:

• https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response
• https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/01/23/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas-with-implications-for-returning-travellers-or-visitors-arriving-in-the-uk