Be prepared & respond speedily, urges SEAR Regional Director

A strong call went out from the WHO’s Regional Director for the South-East Asia Region, Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh to the countries in the region to be prepared for “all possible scenarios” and ensure early containment measures.

This was as India, Indonesia and Thailand confirmed new cases of COVID19 and five of the 11 countries in the region had confirmed cases. Thailand – 43, India – 28, Indonesia – 2, Sri Lanka – 1 (the Chinese woman tourist who has recovered and returned home), and Nepal – 1.

“The top priority of countries should be to be ready to roll out speedy response to the first case, first cluster and first evidences of community transmission. Early containment measures can help countries stop transmission,” said Dr Khetrapal Singh, adding that the risk of the new coronavirus is very high across the world. More cases can be expected. Rapidly identifying these cases, isolating them and following their contacts are important initiatives to help limit person-to-person transmission. “The speed of our response is critical, which is only possible if we are prepared.”

The virus can cause mild, flu-like symptoms as well as more severe disease. Patients have a range of symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath. Based on current data, globally 81% of cases seem to have mild disease, about 14% appear to progress to severe disease, and some 5% are critical, she said.

Ten things to ward off disease

Clean your hands regularly – wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand rub.

Clean surfaces regularly with disinfectant – for example kitchen benches and work desks.

Educate yourself about COVID-19. Make sure your information comes from reliable sources.

Avoid travelling if you have a fever or cough, and if you become sick while on a flight, inform the crew immediately. Once you get to your destination, make contact with a health professional and tell them about where you have been.

Cough or sneeze into your sleeve. If using a tissue, dispose of the tissue immediately into a closed rubbish bin and then clean your hands.

Take extra precautions to avoid crowded areas if you are over 60 years old or if you have an underlying condition.

If you feel unwell, stay at home and call your doctor or local health professional. If you are sick, stay at home and eat and sleep separately from your family, use different utensils and cutlery to eat.

If you develop shortness of breath, call your doctor and seek care immediately.

It’s normal and understandable to feel anxious, especially if you live in a country that has been affected. Find out what you can do in your community. Discuss how to stay safe in your workplace, school or place of worship.