In times of COVID-19 (corona virus), the hand hygiene required by the Semmelweis Foundation is even more crucial. The most important and effective preventive measure is a good and correct hand hygiene. In addition, correct coughing (in the crook of the arm, not in the hand) is helpful to prevent an infection. Since the endangered target groups are staying in health care facilities and retirement homes in particular, it is advisable to reduce visits by external visitors.
What is COVID-19 and how dangerous is it?
Similar to seasonal influenza (mortality rate: < 1 %), COVID-19 mainly affects elderly and immunocompromised persons.
How is COVID-19 transmitted?
The main route of transmission is from-human-to-human via droplet infection.
How long is the incubation period?
Up to 14 days.
Which symptoms come along with an infection?
Usually, infections for healthy people are mild and asymptomatic. Common signs of an infection are similar to seasons influenza, e.g. fever, cough, shortness of breath as well as breathing problems.
Maybe I’m infected. What should I do?
If you have symptoms (feaver, shortness of breathing) or you are afraid that you could be infected, please keep calm and stay at home. Minimize the contact to other people and call 1450 (in Austria), respectively the hotline of your country.
Which steps will be made, if I’m infected?
If you are infected, you’ll get isolated. People you’ve had contact with, will get identified as far as known and informed. Depending on the situation, a quarantine can be the order.
How can I prevent an infection?
- As private person
- Wash your hands with soap thoroughly and several times
- Stay at home if possible (#stayhome #staysafe)
- Nursing staff: Wash your hands with alcohol-based hand rub thoroughly and several times
- If you cough or sneeze cover your mouth and nose with and tissues (afterwards throw the tissue away).
- Reduce contact to other people
- Health care facilities and retirement: reduce visits by external visitors.
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