#GrandTurk, Turks and Caicos Islands – February 13, 2020 — On 31 December 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) was alerted to an outbreak of a novel Coronavirus strain in Wuhan, China. On 30 January 2020, the outbreak was declared a global health emergency, acknowledging the risk of spread beyond China and the need for a more coordinated international response. As of 11th February, 45179 cases (446 outside of China) and 1114 deaths (1 outside of China) have been reported. The novel coronavirus has since officially been named COVID-19.
It is important to note that the there are no suspected or confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in the TCI. There are a number of steps that the general public can take to help prevent COVID-19. The World Health Organization recommends the following:
- Wash your hands frequently: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub if your hands are not visibly dirty.
- Practice respiratory hygiene: When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – discard tissue immediately and clean your hands.
- Maintain social distancing: Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Hands touch many surfaces which can be contaminated with the virus.
- If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early. Tell your health care provider if you have traveled in an area in China, or if you have been in close contact with someone with who has traveled from China and has respiratory symptoms.
- Avoid consumption of raw or undercooked animal products: Handle raw meat, milk or animal organs with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods.
- MHASHS IS ADVISING THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL TO CHINA AT THIS TIME.
It is also important to use only credible sources, such as the WHO or CDC websites, for 2019-nCoV information as false news and myths have been common place during this time. The following website addresses common myths about the outbreak:
Https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters
For further information, please contact Ms. Charlene Higgs 649-232-9444.
TCIG PRESS RELEASE
