Dear fellow South Africans

At DDP we pride ourselves in ensuring South African citizens have all relevant and important information about our country.

We face a trying time for all South Africans amid the Covid-19 epidemic currently spreading rapidly across the world and in our own country.

It is of the utmost importance that we stand together as a country and adhere to the rules and regulations outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa to flatten the curve and protect the citizens of this country.

What is the Corona Virus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recent Coronavirus disease is COVID-19. The virus develops to cause a disease known as Covid-19, which has not been previously identified in humans.

The virus spreads between people who are in close contact, within about six feet. The disease is transmitted by respiratory droplets, when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The second way in which the virus is spread is when one person touches a surface or object that contains the virus and proceeds to touch their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms

Some of the most common signs of the virus include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. In more drastic cases, the virus can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome and death.

Safety Measures

#1 REGULARLY WASHING HANDS

Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Do this especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

#2 COVER YOUR MOUTH AND NOSE WHEN COUGHING AND SNEEZING

Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not readily available after you sneeze or cough.

#3 ENSURE YOUR AREA IS CLEAN AT ALL TIMES

Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or wipes.

#4 AVOID CLOSE CONTACT WITH ANYONE SHOWING SYMPTOMS OF RESPIRATORY ILLNESS

Avoid close contact with people who are sick or stay at home if you’re feeling sick.

#5 STAY AT HOME

Stay at home as much as possible, only go to a shop or pharmacy if it is necessary.

For more information, please see links to resources and support line below.

National Coronavirus Resource Portal –  www.sacoronavirus.co.za

National Coronavirus Hotline – 0800 029 999

National Coronavirus WhatsApp Support Line – 0600 123 456

Article Resources:

www.sacoronavirus.co.za

http://www.health.gov.za/index.php/outbreaks/145-corona-virus-outbreak/465-corona-virus-outbreak