What is coronavirus (COVID-19)?

COVID-19 is the most recently discovered coronavirus disease.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).


How do you catch COVID-19?

COVID-19 is transmitted mainly through the droplet method. Small droplets that spray from the mouth if an infected person when they cough or sneeze land on a surface that can be touched by other people. The best way to minimise your risk is to avoid touching your face and wash your hands after touching public surfaces such as handrails, door knobs and money.


What can I do to reduce the likelihood of getting COVID-19?

  • Wash your hands frequently. Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and warm water to kill viruses that may be on your hands.
  • Maintain social distancing where possible. Maintain at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. This is to stop you breathing small liquid droplets that may be sent out from their nose or mouth which may contain virus.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth (including through food you touch without first washing your hands). From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
  • Practice respiratory hygiene. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately into a rubbish bin. Doing this will reduce the chances of droplets spreading to others.
  • If you’re feeling unwell stay home and let your manager know.
  • If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
  • Follow advice given by your healthcare provider. If you are unwell, call your doctor or medical clinic in advance for advice and to give them a chance to prepare for your visit.
  • Stay informed. National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation, including in your local area, and so are best-placed to advise on what you should do to protect yourself and others.
  • Get the flu vaccine. While the flu vaccine will not prevent coronavirus infection, it is recommended that as many people as possible get their flu vaccine shots this year to limit the number of people with similar symptoms and take the burden off of the health system. It is recommended that you take your flu shot from April this year to ensure it is as effective as possible.