How did coronavirus spreadOn 31 December 2019, China alerted World Health Organization(WHO) to several cases of unusual pneumonia in Wuhan, a port city of 11 million people in the central Hubei province, caused by an unknow virus. On 11 January 2020, China reported its first death from the virus. On 10 February, China had 908 confirmed deaths and a total of 40,171 infections. President Xi Jinping appeared in public for the first time since the epidemic began, visiting a hospital in Beijing and urging confidence in the battle against the virus. On 11 Febrary, the WHO announced that the new coronavirus would be called "COVID-19". On 11 March 2020, WHO declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic which has spead to at least 114 countries. On 12 March 2020, more than 4,600 people worldwide with more than 126,100 people infected. How can we protect ourselves from this deadly virus?According to WHO, there are measurements we can take to protect ourselves from getting infected. Wash your hands frequentlyRegularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands. Maintain social distancingMaintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease. In some European countries, like Italy, France and Spain, people may need to stop the ritual of double kisses on cheeks while greeting, particularly with someone they do not know. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouthWhy? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick. Practice respiratory hygieneMake sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care earlyStay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections. Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare providerStay 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. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on whether COVID-19 is spreading in your area. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves. For more information about coronavirus and guidance on self protection and protection of your loved ones, please visit World Health Organization. Take care of yourself, your family, your loved ones!
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