How can I protect myself and prevent the spread of disease?
Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the Ministry of Health website, WHO website and other credible sources. Authorities in Singapore and some other countries have been making concerted efforts to slow or stop Covid-19 outbreaks. However, the situation is unpredictable so check regularly for the latest news.
You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions:
- Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitiser or wash them with soap and water because washing your hands kills viruses that may be on your hands.
- Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
- 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. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
- 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. Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
- Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and where possible, call in advance. Follow the directions of your health service provider or refer to Ministry of Health website, as they have the most up to date information on the situation in Singapore.
- Keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 hotspots (cities or local areas where COVID-19 is spreading widely). Avoid traveling to places – especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.