A new coronavirus called COVID-19 is currently circulating in several countries in the region. While no case of COVID-19 has yet been detected in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, there are some useful things you can do to keep yourself, and your loved ones, safe from disease.
COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms such as cough, sore throat, fever and a runny nose, similar to the common cold. In some cases, it can cause more severe symptoms, including pneumonia and breathing difficulties. In rare situations, it can even lead to death. Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as diabetes and heart disease) appear to be more at risk of severe symptoms.
Many of the things that you can do to prevent COVID-19 are the same things you can do to protect yourself against lots of other diseases. Please share these messages with your community, especially the most vulnerable – everyone has an important role in keeping themselves and others safe.
Wash your hands – often!
Frequently washing your hands with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand rub, can kill the virus if it is on your hands. This is especially important if you have had direct contact with someone ill, their environment or with animals.
Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your bent elbow
The virus spreads through droplets in the air from coughing and sneezing. This means that by covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze (using a disposable tissue, clothing or your elbow), you can limit the spread of the virus. Don’t forget to throw your tissue into a closed bin and wash your hands straight afterwards.
While wearing a mask can help limit the spread of some respiratory diseases, it is not enough on its own and handwashing and respiratory hygiene are critically important. WHO only recommends using masks if you are coughing and sneezing, have a mild suspected case of COVID-19 or you are caring for someone with suspected COVID-19. Check out this WHO guidance on when and how to use masks correctly
Avoid close contact with sick or stray animals
It is possible that COVID-19 could be transmitted between humans and animals. To protect yourself, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals, like in wet markets. Always wash your hands after contact with animals.
Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of acute respiratory infections
Keeping one metre distance between yourself and other people can help to limit the spread of COVID-19, especially if you or them are coughing, sneezing, have a fever or are having difficulty breathing.
What to do if you feel unwell:
Do not go to work or school if you are sick.
If you have fever, cough or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly as this may be due to a several different infections or conditions. Respiratory symptoms with fever can have a range of causes, and depending on your personal travel history and circumstances, COVID-19 could be one of them.
If you are in Lao PDR and you experience these symptoms, call 166 at any time to ask for advice in Lao, English or Chinese, or go to your nearest health care facility to seek urgent medical