Get ready for COVID-19 What are coronavirus? Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more serious illnesses. The new coronavirus is a new strain, never detected in humans before. COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). How does people become infected? The virus can be transmitted by inhaling droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing of people with COVID-19, or by contact with contaminated surfaces followed by contact with mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose). What are the symptoms? Most infected people have mild respiratory symptoms and recover. However other persons may have a more serious illness. Symptoms can include a combination of: Fever Cough Shortness of breath Muscle aches Tiredness Isolation What is home insolation? People who have had contact with COVID-19 or who have mild symptoms of COVID-19 do not need to be hospitalized. Instead, the SNS 24 or physicians can recommend isolation at home, to limit the spread of the virus. Isolation means that you should stay at home, in a well-ventilated room with a window, preferably with your own bathroom separated from the rest of your family. If that is not possible, do not share toiletries, soap or towel, and take your bath after all the others. Rules to be observed in isolation Do not receive visitors and stay separate from others at home; You must wear a mask when you are in the same room with other people; Do not share household items (plates, glasses, cutlery) and, after use, wash it with soap and water or in the washing machine at high temperature (70ºC-90ºC); Activate your social network to bring essential food and medicines to you; Ask them to leave the goods at your doorstep, do not have direct contact with them; Wash your hands frequently, for at least 20 seconds; Wash your hands before and after any interaction with other people; Use a separate plastic bag for the garbage you produce; Monitor your symptoms, measure the temperature twice a day; Contact the SNS 24 or health authority if your clinical situation gets worse. Isolation should be maintained until otherwise indicated by the Health Authorities. Protect yourself and others It is essential that all citizens comply with measures to reduce the spread of the virus. The infection can induce mild symptoms and, as such, there is no quick way to know who is or is not infected. Only strict compliance with the measures below will allow us to fight adequately to the current pandemic. Avoid unnecessary travel, stay as much as possible at home Avoid going to health services, contact your doctor, use clinical screening by phone, or SNS 24 if necessary Wash your hands frequently With running water and soap; For at least 20 seconds; Dry your hands well. Use breathing good practices Sneeze and cough into the elbow, never to the hands; Blow yourself with disposable tissues, immediately throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands immediately; Do not touch your face with your hands. Maintain social detachment Avoid crowds of people, especially in closed and poorly ventilated places; Buy food during off-peak hours; Avoid using public transport during busy hours; Exercise outdoors, rather than indoors; Keep at least 1 meter away, ideally 2, from other individuals; Do not greet others with handshakes, hugs or kisses. Find alternative ways for you daily activities Work as much as possible from home; Talk to your friends and family using eletronic devices. Attention Read about COVID-19 only in reliable sources; Stay physically active; Make sure you have antipyretics, paper tissues and a thermometer at home; If you take chronic medication make sure you have enough and consider ordering it electronically / by phone; Have enough food for 2-4 weeks. Prepare yourself gradually, avoid “supermarket panic”; Activate your social network. Contact family, friends, neighbors and plan ahead what to do if you are in isolation; Follow the latest instructions from the Direção-Geral de Saúde; Continue to practice general hygiene measures. Click here for more information and advice of Hospital da Luz about the novel coronavírus COVID-19 epidemic . The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
