COVID-19 SYMPTOMS:
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is characterised by mild symptoms including a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. Illness can be more severe for some people and can lead to pneumonia or breathing difficulties, more rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people, and people with other medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), may be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Protect yourself From COVID-19
There is a lot of discussion about the illness COVID-19 and some of it is confusing. This fact sheet answers questions and shares tips and referrals for our communities.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. People with COVID-19 may not have symptoms but can still pass the virus on. Symptoms can range from a very mild illness to severe pneumonia. People with COVID-19 may experience fever and flu-like symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, fatigue and shortness of breath. Some people will recover quickly and easily, and others may get very sick very quickly.
How worried should I be?
COVID-19 is a serious health issue but there is no need for panic. Australia has a strong health system and our public health officials are world-class. You can trust their advice. Taking a few simple steps and doing a little planning can help you look after yourself and others.
How to protect yourself?
Washing your hands and being careful with coughing and sneezing is the best defence against most coronaviruses:
1- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water (try to do this for 20 seconds) or alcohol- based hand sanitiser, before and after eating, after going to the toilet and after coughing or sneezing
2-Avoid touching your face, particularly your nose, mouth and eyes
3-Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing (or cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow) and dispose of tissues
4-Social distancing restrictions are now in place. This means you need to avoid contact with others (touching, kissing, hugging and other intimate contact) and check the latest official advice on seeing a doctor or self-quarantining if you are feeling unwell. With social distancing, remember to stay 1.5 metres away from other people. You do not need to wear a face mask unless you develop symptoms of COVID-19.
https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert
Returned From an Affected Area
Returned from an affected area, in the last two weeks, stay indoors and avoid contact with other people for 14 days. This means not going to work and school or public areas.
