It's a Challenging Period for South Africa. Be Safe! (COVID-19)

Hello everyone!! I'm sure most of you are already aware of what's going on in our country, it is a very tough time, I must say. The least we can do is keep ourselves safe by following all necessary precautions.

A new type of coronavirus, abbreviated COVID-19, is causing an outbreak of respiratory (lung) disease. It was first detected in China and has now been detected internationally (South Africa).

COVID-19 is a new disease, which means scientists and public health experts are still learning how it spreads and the severity of illness it causes.

Early information shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this virus. This includes older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or a serious medical condition, it is extra important for you to take actions to avoid getting sick.

Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others. When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often. Avoid crowds as much as possible. Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra necessary medications to have on hand in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time. Be sure you have over-the-counter medicines and medical supplies (tissues, etc.) to treat fever and other symptoms. Most people will be able to recover from COVID-19 at home.

Practical Tips to Stay Safe

Practice good hand hygiene and minimize how often you touch your face. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol before touching your face or eating. When using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, make sure to rub it in until your hands are completely dry.

Avoid touching surfaces with fingertips. Your fingertips are the part of your hand most likely to transmit a virus, because they’re the part most often used to touch your nose or mouth. Instead of a finger, use an object such as a pen, or even your knuckle, to press an elevator button. Open doors with an elbow or the back of a hand.

Grab a tissue. “Carry a pack of single-use tissues. “You can use these to open a door or grab a handrail.

Clean your hands before touching your smartphone. Mobile phones may not be public surfaces, but studies have shown that they too can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other germs.

Let's stay strong and fight the COVID-19 outbreak by taking all precautionary measures. Stay safe, be vigilant and most importantly remember, prevention is better than cure.