20/03/2020
A leaflet is being circulated in the UAE advising travellers from China of the necessary steps should they show signs of the coronavirus.
The UAE has confirmed five cases of the virus, with all those diagnosed currently being treated in the country.
The leaflet, which is in Arabic, English and Chinese details what exactly the virus is and how it is transmitted, as well as showing what the symptoms are and how members of the public can guard against it.
It states: “Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.”
Guidelines also urge people who suspect they may have the virus not to have contact with others and not to travel.
It also outlines basic hygiene rules to follow.
“Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve [not your hands] when coughing or sneezing.
“Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available.”
Since emerging from the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, the mysterious coronavirus has infected 14,000 people across China and spread to 24 countries.
The World Health Organisation late last week declared the situation a global health emergency, and nations have taken extraordinary measures to build virtual fortresses against the disease.
The leaflet urged people to contact government departments for further information or medical support and said they should “not circulate information about diseases in general”.