Helpful Information

All your questions answered with information gathered from reliable sources

What is COVID-19?

Coronaviruses are not new, they are actually a family of viruses that cause disease in animals. Up to date, there are 7 (seven) coronaviruses that have crossed over from animal to humans, most of which present themselves as your “average cold”. This new coronavirus (previously known as “2019 novel coronavirus”), according to the World Health Organization has 2 names. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Where did it start?

The source of Covid-19 is believed to be a wet market (definition of a wet market as per Wikipedia: A wet market is a market selling fresh meat, fish, produce, and other perishable goods as distinguished from “dry markets” which sell durable goods such as fabric and electronics.

Wet markets are common in East Asia and Latin America, but are also found in traditional open-air markets in Europe and North America) in Wuhan which sold both dead and live animals including fish and birds.

It is believed that the source of this disease is from bats, even though they apparently dont sell bats at this market, bats may have infected any of the other live stock that is sold.

How is Covid-19 spread?

Like colds and flu, this virus is spread by droplets when a person coughs (a single cough can produce up to 3,000 droplets) or sneezes.

People catch the virus when they touch their infected hands to their mouth, nose or eyes.

These particles can land on other people, clothing and surfaces around them, but some of the smaller particles can remain in the air.

There is also some evidence that the virus is also shed for longer in faecal matter, so anyone not washing their hands thoroughly after visiting the toilet could contaminate anything they touch.

How can I avoid being infected?

1. WASH YOUR HANDS

Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water as this will kill viruses that may be on them.

2. MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING

Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

3. AVOID TOUCHING EYES, NOSE AND MOUTH

This is to avoid transferring the virus to these parts which will then allow the virus to enter your body and make you sick.

4. COVER UP WHEN YOU SNEEZE OR COUGH

Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

5. SEEK MEDICAL CARE EARLY

Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance.

6. STAYED INFORMED

Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.