As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to dominate headlines across the world, our epidemiologists and infectious disease experts have been following its evolving development and tracking how we can best respond.
Two weeks ago, Doctors Without Borders sent 3.5 metric tons of medical protective equipment to Wuhan Jinyintan Hospital, at the center of China’s coronavirus outbreak. Earlier, our teams in Hong Kong launched a medical education program, talking to street cleaners, asylum-seekers, visually impaired—people at a higher risk for infection—to make sure they have medically accurate information. In other countries where Doctors Without Borders is working, our teams are preparing for potential outbreaks of the disease.
Doctors Without Borders is also in contact with local health authorities in several countries—mainly in South and Southeast Asia—and has offered support if needed, including training on infection prevention and control measures for health workers and health education for at-risk people. Public awareness about the disease and enhanced prevention measures are essential to containing the outbreak. Evidence shows that during an outbreak of respiratory disease like COVID-19 it is important to:
- Use proper hand washing techniques and coughing etiquette;
- Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of respiratory disease; and
- Stay home and inform a doctor when feeling sick.
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