Jamaica confirmed 6 new cases of the corona virus. This pushes the number of persons tested positive to eight. Earlier today the Health minister, Dr Christopher Tufton said that two of the new cases are related to the first patient. The other four patients involve those with a travel history.
In an effort to combat the spread of the Corona virus, also called COVID 19, here are a few tips to consider.
Wash hands after traveling, before eating, before touching face, etc.
Washing your hands is one of the main ways that you can help to lower your risk of infection as well as protecting everyone else. While washing hands it is important to wash with soap, scrub between finger, palm, fingernails thoroughly with soap.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Put distance between yourself and people if COVID 19 is in your community. This is especially for people who has a weaker immune system or are prone to sicknesses.
ALSO remember to consider OTHERS
- Stay Home if you are not feeling well and call before visiting the hospital or health centers.
Cover coughs or sneezes
- Cover mouth and nose before coughing or sneezing with a tissue or inside elbow. Also, remember to properly dispose tissue after using it.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
ONLY wear a face-mask if you are sick
- If you are sick: You should wear a face-mask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a face-mask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a face-mask if they enter your room.
- If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a face-mask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a face-mask). Face-masks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers. If not used properly, using a face-mask could lead to the spreading of the disease rather than preventing it.
Clean and Disinfect
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.