Six cases with ‘high viral load’ have been detected during sample testing in Agra. The samples were of those who had come into contact with the COVID-19 patient from New Delhi reported on March 2, according to a release issued by the Union Health Ministry on March 3.
“They have been kept in isolation. Their samples are being sent to NIV, Pune, for confirmation,” said the Ministry.
Most important: Do not panic. While the outbreak is a serious public health concern, the majority of those who contract the coronavirus do not become seriously ill, and only a small percentage require intensive care.
By following some basic steps, you can help reduce your risk and do your part to protect others.
To do
- Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially if you have been in a public place. Experts suggest that one should spend at least 20 seconds — or the time it takes to sing Happy birthday twice — to clean the back of one’s hands, the space between one’s fingers and underneath the fingernails.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose with unwashed hands.
- Wear a specialised face mask — the N95 respirators are fitted to a person’s face to keep out any viral particles.
- Cover your cough with disposable tissues and discard them immediately after use.
- Seek medical advice if you are sick. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory diseases — such as fever, cough and shortness of breath.
What not to do
- Avoid sharing utensils, water bottles, and personal hygiene items like towels.
- Keep your non-essential travel plans to the minimum and avoid attending large public events.
- Refrain from spreading unscientific misinformation about possible ways to prevent or treat coronavirus.
- Do not stockpile disposable face masks. Such masks need to be worn only by those who are suspected of have an infection.
- Stay away from people who are sick or show symptoms such as coughing or fever.
There is no need to panic. We need to work together, take small yet important measures to ensure self-protection. pic.twitter.com/sRRPQlMdtr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2020
