Get to know more about the Corona Virus and Infection and more on travel advice.

Novel Coronavirus Infection – What to know 

√ Health Authorities in China confirmed outbreak of novel Coronavirus on 07 January 2020 in Wuhan Province.

√ Outbreak linked to a local animal market 

√ Spread  of the virus is from animals to human.

√ Spread of virus can also be from infected person to another.

Mode of Transmission

√ An infected person coughs or sneeze on another person.

Characteristics of the Disease

Disease can be identified by: 

* Fever

* Cough 

* Difficulties in breathing.

Severe cases

* Pneumonia

* Severe acute respiratory syndrome

* Kidney failure

* Death

Source of virus suspected to be from snake meat which is consumed in China

Source of the Disease

Snakes (Chinese Krait and Chinese Cobra) are the likely source of the newly discovered Coronavirus. Disease first reported in Wuhan Province in Central China.

Preventive Measures

√ Keep a distance of at least one (1) metre from a person showing signs of fever; cough and difficulties in breathing.

√ If contact with a sick person or with potentially infected surfaces or objects occurs; those involved must not touch their eyes; nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

√ Regular washing of hands with soap and water. Use of hand sanitizer advisable where applicable.

√ Be physically active and drink plenty of fluids; eat well; reduce stress and have enough sleep.

Seek treatment immediately if infection is suspected; if symptoms occur or when advised by a health worker.

Travel advice following the Novel Coronavirus reported in China

These cover the basic principles to reduce the general risk of transmission of acute respiratory infections and more specific advice relating to the “Wuhan Coronavirus”

√ Travel to China (except Hubei Province – Wuhan, Chibi, Ezhou, Huanggang and Lichuan) and the wider Asia Pacific region can continue until further notice. Travel to China requires Corporate Security approval. 

√ Avoid touching your face and ensure food, including eggs, are thoroughly cooked.

√ Do not travel if you are sick.  Note that some locations have implemented screening and that travelers may face quarantine and testing. 

√ Maintain flexible itineraries as additional time may be required for health and temperature screenings at airports, railway stations, docks and long haul bus  stations.  Screening measures are being implemented in an increasing number of airports and locations globally. 

√ Monitor the latest information on the virus, as well as any quarantine and isolation procedures implemented at your origin and destination.

√ Do not visit wet markets (markets selling fresh meat, fish, produce, and other perishable goods) or farms. Keep some distance from people who look sick. Avoid direct contact with animals (live or dead) and their environment. Do not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with droppings.

√ Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. Carry hand sanitiser for use when soap and water are not readily available and follow any guidance from the local health authorities.

√ In case of symptoms suggestive of acute respiratory illness either during or after travel, please seek medical attention and share your travel history with the health care provider. The most common symptoms are fever, cough and shortness of breath.