The coronavirus is a family of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses in humans including the common cold and more severe forms like SARS and MERS which are life-threatening. The virus is named after its shape which takes the form of a crown with protrusions around it and hence is known as coronavirus. According to economic times data, India has reported three coronavirus cases as of February 27.
- The third case is from Kerala’s Kasargod district. The patient is said to be stable.
- The second case from the state is being monitored in an isolation ward at Alappuzha Medical College.
- The patient who first tested positive for coronavirus is currently hospitalized in Thrissur Medical College and her condition is stable.
Kerala has declared a state of calamity after the three positive cases.
How can your workplace protect from coronavirus?
- Make sure your workplace is clean and hygienic– Surfaces (e.g.desks and tables) and objects (e.g. telephones, keyboards) need to be wiped with disinfectant regularly. This is because contamination on surfaces touched by employees and customers is one of the main ways that the coronavirus spreads.
- Promote regular and thorough hand-washing by employees, contractors, and customers– This can be enhanced by putting sanitizing hand rub dispensers in prominent places and making sure the dispensers are filled regularly. You could even include display posters promoting hand-washing.
- Promote good respiratory hygiene in the workplace – This could be done by providing face masks (WHO notes that ordinary surgical face masks rather than N95 face masks are sufficient) for those who develop a runny nose or cough at work, along with closed bins for hygienically disposing of them. Paper tissues should also be readily available.
- Consult national travel advice -Advise employees and contractors to consult national travel advice before going on business trips.
- Brief your employees- It should be explained, as a precaution, that if COVID-19 starts spreading anyone with even a mild cough or low-grade fever (37.3 C or more) need to stay at home. They should also stay home (or work from home) if they have had to take simple medications, such as paracetamol/acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin, which may mask symptoms of infection
- Maintain Distance- Stay at least 3 feet (or 1 meter) away from anyone who may be infected.
- Helpline +91-11-2397 8046 or mail ncov2019@gmail.com for more information.
The World Health Organisation guidance on how to prevent the spread of #COVID19 in a workplace to protect your customers, contractors and employees.
Here is a useful latest infographic released by WHO, additionally, you can find the latest information from the World Health Organization by clicking here.
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Sources– https://www.independent.com, Economic Times
