New updates on coronavirus disease (COVID-19) by World Health Organization (WHO)

Introduction

There are many unreliable information and resources regarding the current outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Now, the fight against rumours and misinformation is a vital part of the battle against this virus.

We rely on World Health Organization (WHO) on sharing information and guidance to make sure people have the accurate information about the threat they face, and how to protect themselves and others.

There are many queries and WHO has the answers.

Question 1: How effective are thermal scanners in detecting people infected with the new coronavirus (nCOV-2019)?

Answer: thermal scanners are effective in detecting people who have developed a fever because infection with the new coronavirus (nCoV-2019). However, they cannot detect people who are infected but are not yet sick with fever. This is because it takes between 2 and 10 days before people who are infected become sick and develop a fever.

Question 2: Can COVID-19 spread through faeces?

Answer: Like other coronaviruses, this virus can be found in faeces, but COVID-19 spreads primarily through close contact with an infected person or the droplets released when they sneeze or cough.

Question 3: Can the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) survive in hot and humid climates?

Answer: Yes, 2019-nCoV has spread to countries with both hot and humid climates, as well as cold and dry. Therefore, it is important to practise good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.

Question 4: What should I do if shops are sold out of hand sanitizer?

Answer: Washing your hands using regular soap and water is also effective against COVID-19. Remember to wash between your fingers, the backs of your hands and around your nails.

Question 5: Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat the new coronavirus?

Answer: To date, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). However, those infected with virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms, and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)