COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan, China, – ‘CO’ stands for corona, ‘VI’ for virus, and ‘D’ for disease. The COVID-19 virus is a new virus linked to the same family of viruses as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and some types of common cold.

There are a lot of myths and misinformation about coronavirus being shared online so, it’s important to be careful where you look for information and advice. It’s also important to keep up to date on the latest recommendations and news.

What are the Symptoms of COVID-19

Symptoms may include fever, cough and shortness of breath and, in more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia or breathing difficulties which can be fatal. These symptoms are similar to the flu or the common cold. This is why testing is required to confirm if someone has COVID-19. It’s important to remember that key prevention measures are important.

How does the COVID-19 virus spread?

The virus is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person (through coughing and sneezing), and touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. The COVID-19 virus may survive on surfaces for a few hours to several days, but simple disinfectants can kill it.

Here are some precautions you and your family can take to help avoid infection:

Wash your hands frequently using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub

Cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissue immediately

Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms

Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like phones, doorknobs, light switches and countertops

Seek medical care early if you or your child has a fever, cough or difficulty breathing.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for how to talk about the coronavirus with your children, family and friends to avoid discrimination and bullying:

• DO: talk about the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
• DON’T: attach locations or ethnicity to the disease. Remember, viruses can’t target people from specific populations, ethnicities, or racial backgrounds.
• DO: talk about “people who have COVID-19”, “people who are being treated for COVID-19”, “people who are recovering from COVID-19” or “people who died after contracting COVID-19”
• DON’T: refer to people with the disease as “COVID-19 cases” or “victims”
• DO: talk about people “acquiring” or “contracting” COVID-19 
• DON’T: talk about people “transmitting COVID-19” “infecting others” or “spreading the virus” as it implies intentional transmission and assigns blame.
• DO: speak accurately about the risk from COVID-19, based on scientific data and latest official health advice
• DON’T: repeat or share unconfirmed rumours, and avoid using hyperbolic language designed to generate fear like “plague”, “apocalypse” etc.
• DO: talk positively and emphasise the importance of effective prevention measures, including following our tips on handwashing. For most people this is a disease they can overcome. There are simple steps we can all take to keep ourselves, our loved ones and the most vulnerable safe.