Minimise your risk of being infected with the coronavirus

Jamaica has recorded 12 cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) up to press time yesterday.

Below are some tips from the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

- Practise social distancing and stay away from anyone who is sick.

- Take extra measures to put distance between yourself and other people to further reduce your risk of being exposed to this new virus.

- Stay home as much as possible.

- Consider ways of getting food brought to your house through family, social, or commercial networks.

- If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. (An outbreak is when a large number of people suddenly get sick.) Depending on how severe the outbreak is, public-health officials may recommend community actions to reduce people’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19. These actions can slow the spread and reduce the impact of disease.

- Have a plan for if you get sick.

- Do not go to the hospital or other health facilities - Call 888-ONE LOVE

- Stay in touch with others by phone or email.

- Determine who can care for you if your caregiver gets sick.

- Watch for symptoms and emergency warning signs

- Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including, fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you feel like you are developing symptoms, call 888-ONE LOVE.

If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs consists of:

- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;

- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest;

- New confusion or inability to arouse;

- Bluish lips or face.