How to Protect and Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is working with global experts, governments and partners to provide advice to countries and individuals to protect health and prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus (2019 – nCoV).

According to the WHO, the novel Coronaviruses (nCoV) is a new strain of a family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases, such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The Coronavirus is believed to be zoonotic, which means it has been transmitted between animals and people.

The novel Coronavirus (nCoV) is spread through a respiratory route in the same way as cold and flu: sneezes and coughs propelling fine airborne droplets and aerosols into the air or onto hands that then touch other surfaces, or by touching our eyes, nose or mouth after contact with contaminated surfaces.

Signs of the novel Coronavirus (nCoV) can include respiratory symptoms. Some of the respiratory symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases the infection has been known to cause pneumonia, kidney failure, severe acute respiratory syndrome.

To reduce exposure to and transmission of the novel Coronavirus (nCoV), implementation of infection prevention and control is important.

  • Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
  • When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever and cough.
  • As more information becomes available consider the use of appropriate respiratory protection to reduce exposure to particles. P2/N95 rated face masks are recommended as they filter out droplets and aerosols if worn correctly.

There are three typical cases that may present to Injurynet:

For more information about this topic download our Fact Sheet: Injurynet COVID-19 Fact Sheet – An Employers Guide

Injurynet’s Medical Advisory Service including is a specialised support service for employers to help fulfil their responsibilities in relation to employee health. It provides medical expertise and advice regarding health issues impacting work, and work issues impacting health at both an individual and organisational level.

If your organisation would like to discuss the particular circumstances in your workplace, contact us. One of our specialised in-house medical advisors will be able to discuss and make recommendations that suit your needs.
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