Personal hygiene best precautionary measure against coronavirus, says expert

Personal hygiene best precautionary measure against coronavirus, says expert

QLNews
By QLNews

As the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared the novel coronavirus as a public health emergency of international concern, health authorities around the world have stepped up their monitoring and preparedness to combat the infection.

The coronavirus, which originated from the Chinese city of Wuhan, has spread to at least 25 countries including the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates in the last few days.

Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has confirmed there is no case of the coronavirus in the country. The ministry reaffirmed that all necessary safety precautions and measures are in place to tackle the disease.

While authorities continue to do their part, at an individual level, it is highly important to maintain personal hygiene.

According to Dr Patrick Tan, Division Chief of pathology Sciences at Sidra Medicine, “To avoid any respiratory infection, whether it is the common cold or the novel coronavirus, practice common measures such as washing the hands often, keeping hands away from the eyes, nose, and mouth, and staying away from people who are sick.”

Advising the public not to give in to anxiety, Dr Tan who played a prominent role in dealing with the SARS virus in 2003, said Qatar has a very low to zero risk of getting this virus.

He said the coronavirus mainly spreads via respiratory droplets and secretions from infected individuals. So it tends to pass on from infected individuals to others through direct or close contact. This could also be, contact through objects and surfaces, he mentioned.

 

“You should wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces such as door handles, elevator buttons, and handrails. You should avoid close contact with people who have respiratory symptoms such as coughing or sneezing,” he highlighted.

Dr Tang further said that the fatality rate of this infection is between 2 to 3 percent, which is much lower than that of the SARS and MERS outbreak in the past years.

“Using the old-fashioned technique of quarantine, we were able to eliminate the SARS virus in 2003 from the human population,” he said.

However, with this new virus, he said it is significant that the epicenter of the outbreak is closely monitored.

“If China is able to contain the outbreak, it will significantly reduce the impact to the rest of the world,” he noted.

Dr Tang advised the public to keep track of the travel advisories issued by MoPH, World Health Organization and Hamad Medical Corporation’s Communicable Disease Center.

Earlier, the Ministry had also asked citizens and residents of Qatar to avoid giving in to rumors about the disease. The public is advised to follow the updates about the situation only through the Ministry’s official sources.

--

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content.

Instagram - @qatarliving

Twitter - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

Source: Gulf Times
Cover and Inline Image: for illustrative purposes only
By Molten Metal• 13 Mar 2020 07:18
Molten Metal

Above all we should be regular in our prayers ..... Most important ........

By Molten Metal• 13 Mar 2020 07:14
Molten Metal

Seema, Fully agree with you ...... For me , if you ask , camel milk a little warm plus 5 dates morning and same dose after dinner is the best medicine , all weather , yes .........

By Seema Sunith• 13 Mar 2020 06:09
Seema Sunith

+Turmeric milk :

Turmeric is loaded with curcumin which helps to fight bacteria and viruses. It also helps to increase our body's immunity to fight back infections and viruses. Turmeric is also used for its medicinal purposes so, intaking a pinch of turmeric with lukewarm milk regularly can do wonders for your body.

benefits of consuming haldi doodh or turmeric milk regularly

*Boosts Immunity*

If you are one of those who regularly fall prey to viral infection consuming turmeric milk can surely help you. Haldi doodh increases your body's general resistance and immunity.

*Cures joint and muscle pain*

If you are dealing with muscle or joint pains, Haldi doodh can make your life a bit easy. The anti-inflammatory property of turmeric milk can help cure the pain.

ITNOJA.

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.