THE CORONAVIRUS IS HERE!
GUIDANCE FOR INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL FOR NOVEL CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19) IN HOMES AND RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES
This is an interim guidance to help household members plan for community transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). You are encouraged as household members to prepare for the possibility of a COVID-19 outbreak in the community. COVID-19 is caused by a new, dangerous and potentially fatal virus. It is our individual duty to ensure we don’t let this virus effect our community.
INTRODUCTION:
We must take the infection seriously as there is currently no cure for this virus when it hits hard- and its effects are devastating especially because its extremely easily transmissible. This is important for us to understand. Even if the virus effects an individual mildly, whoever gets infected because of the individual may not be as lucky. If one catches the virus and does not take measures to prevent its spread to another person, he is potentially liable for being the reason for loss of health or even life of those around him/her. This can be devastating, especially if the ones we transmit to are our close loved ones. Please watch these short video clip which will make huge difference in the hygiene and protection from contracting the Virus.
https://www.facebook.com/officialwmas/videos/213522323058617/
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/health-51754472/coronavirus-how-to-wash-your-hands-in-20-seconds
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
- Learn as much about the infection as possible from reliable sources – this information needs to be implemented practically with discipline and seriousness after referring to your preferred medical professional.
- Plan for the worst – create a list of contacts, meet up with those who are volunteering to help from around you, get to know your neighbors, and discuss in detail what anyone should do very clearly in the event that they feel they might have the infection. Your local jamaat will have some important input for you in this regard so make sure you ask them.
- Ensure you have reduced your risks of progression of the infection in case you catch it. This involves steps to improve your immunity, and control any chronic conditions you have well such as high BP, diabetes, asthma, etc. – Its also an opportune time to consider stopping to smoke for your own and your family members health.
- Be cautious of anyone who presents with potential exposure and/or symptoms – quarantine/isolation is mandatory and must be complied with. Do not by any chance take this lightly. In such a situation, waste disposal will require advise from medical professionals.
- Ask your doctor what he advises in case of an emergency, remember its more socially responsible and sensible not to spread the disease than to go to seek help for yourself at a nearby hospital if you really have this self-limiting condition without an available cure.
- Practice good hygiene, use of sanitizers, cleaning clutter and contaminated surfaces is very important. The virus has a long duration, it can stay alive on surfaces out of the body so if we don’t sanitize, we can spread it very easily. Also do not come out of home unnecessarily, send any staff who can be done without for paid leave, and most importantly – DO NOT PANIC.
Remember the authorities and local jamaat members are here to help you, not to harm you. If you have any issues, don’t stay quiet in fear of being in the spot light – it’s a moral and religious duty to keep the necessary members in the community informed of your situation.
While at home during self-isolation, you can watch the Premier League Soccer Matches – Enjoy!
https://www.facebook.com/premierleague/videos/2407335619579062/
YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY
SECRETARIAT
CENTRAL HEALTH BOARD OF AFRICA FEDERATION
25th March 2020