CORONAVIRUS COV-19
5th March 2020
Due to the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide, we would like to inform you of all necessary precautions and advice for each individual at this time. We are regularly following official HSE advice to ensure that correct plans will be put in place and appropriate action will be taken, if and when necessary.
The risk of catching coronavirus in Ireland is low to moderate. This may change. However, most people may continue to go to work, school and other public places, as usual. Whilst the coronavirus is not at present a pandemic in Ireland it is advisable to adopt basic precautionary measures at home and in the workplace.
How coronavirus is spread
Coronavirus is spread in sneeze or cough droplets.
You could get the virus if you:
- come into close contact with someone who has the virus and is coughing or sneezing
- touch surfaces that someone who has the virus has coughed or sneezed on
Symptoms of coronavirus
- a cough
- shortness of breath
- breathing difficulties
- fever (high temperature)
It can take up to 14 days for symptoms of coronavirus to appear. If you experience symptoms, Do not go to your GP or ED. Phone them first. If you do not have a GP, or in an emergency, phone 112 or 999.
Protect yourself from coronavirus
Do
- Wash your hands properly and regularly (please refer to hse.ie)
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough and sneeze.
- Put used tissues into a bin and wash your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Follow the travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs.(click for more info)
Don’t
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
- Wash your hands:
-after coughing or sneezing
-after toilet use
-before eating
-before and after preparing food
-if you are in contact with a sick person, especially those with respiratory symptoms
-if your hands are dirty
-if you have handled animals or animal waste
Face masks
Don’t use a face mask if you feel well and do not have symptoms – there’s no evidence that using masks is of any benefit if you are not sick.
Use a face mask if you:
- have or may have coronavirus
- are in close contact with someone who has or may have coronavirus
- are a healthcare worker in close contact with people who have or may have coronavirus
- you develop symptoms
At-risk groups of coronavirus
We do not know for sure which groups are most at risk of complications if they catch coronavirus. But it is likely you are more at risk if you catch coronavirus and:
-are 65 years of age and over
-have a long-term medical condition – for example, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or liver disease
Be informed and follow the official guidance https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/coronavirus.html
Stay safe
Kind regards
GRO Fieldwork The Grafton Suite