Practical Help to Tackle COVID-19

As the world is struggling with the coronavirus outbreak, we would like to shed some light and practical steps to fight this pandemic from our very own homes. These things are not new but a daily reminder to keep each other on check and continue to do so once we get through this.

We are all responsible to tackle this pandemic together. We must take care of own health first and help protect others by doing so. Here are basic protective measures against the new coronavirus:

1. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

By regularly washing your hands with soap and water, it kills viruses that may be harboring on your hands. If you do not have access to soap and water, an alcohol-based hand rub with 60%-70% alcohol content would do the job.

2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Our hands touch many surfaces which may pick-up viruses. Avoid transferring the virus that may contaminate your body and make you feel sick.

3. Observe social distancing.

If a person is coughing or sneezing, tiny liquid droplets are released from their nose or mouth which may contain viruses. You can avoid breathing in the droplets by maintaining at least 1 – 3 meters distance.

4. Practice good hygiene - including respiratory hygiene.

These are the things being taught to us since we were little children. This means to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose off used tissues immediately in a covered bin. Through this, you are protecting the people around you and from spreading viruses such as cold, flu or COVID-19.

5. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing - seek medical care early.

Fever, cough and sore throat are few of the symptoms of the COVID-19 virus. If you are feeling unwell, stay at home and call your local healthcare provider in advance. By doing so, your healthcare provider and the local authority can respond quickly and direct you to the right facility. At the same time, this will protect you and others from spreading the virus and other infections.

Although we may not have the cure against the coronavirus, we can do our part to contribute to the community and support each other during this challenging time.

Keep yourselves aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak by staying updated with true and reliable resources. Read through advisories available on the WHO website and through our national and local public health authorities such as the Dubai Municipality or Dubai Healthcare Authority here in the UAE.

Helpful links:

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public

https://www.dha.gov.ae/en/pages/dhahome.aspx

https://www.dha.gov.ae/Covid19/Pages/home.aspx

https://www.dm.gov.ae/en/UsefulLinks/Pages/Relevant-Websites.aspx