The World Health Organization — in the absence of a vaccine or cure for COVID-19 — recommended several precautionary measures
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said there were 28 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in India, as of March 4, 2020. The Health Ministry also released a travel advisory to Indian citizens over concerns that the virus might spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) — in the absence of a vaccine or cure for COVID-19 — recommended several precautionary measures.
Direct contact with infected people suffering from any kind of illness or flu should be avoided, according to the WHO. Everybody should wash their hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
Alcohol-based hand rubs can also be used, according to the WHO. Hands should be regularly cleaned, especially before and after eating food and after using washrooms.
The mouth and nose should be covered while sneezing and coughing. Touching eyes, the nose and mouth should be avoided as well.
Urgent medical care must be sought by those who suffer from any kind of illness — whether it is fever, cough or any breathing issues — according to the WHO guidelines.
All food items should be properly cooked before consumption, especially meat, according to the WHO guidelines. Raw meat should be kept in separate utensils and prepared separately. Only well-cooked meat should be consumed.
While shopping in wet markets, hands should be thoroughly cleaned, including before and after handling meat and other food products. The same applies for those who work in such markets
Medical supervision should be sought if travellers had visited any country or region which was prone to the novel coronavirus.
Facemasks can be used, according to the WHO. While using them, the mouth and nose should be properly covered. Single-use facemasks should be immediately discarded after usage.
People should also refrain from travelling if they have fever or cough, according to the WHO. They should travel only if it is urgent.
The WHO also said hygiene should be maintained in different environments, including at home and office. The environment in both areas should be regularly disinfected.
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