Coronavirus

(COVID -19)

What is Coronavirus

According to experts, the novel coronavirus is a type of virus that affects the upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nose and throat) and the lower respiratory tract (i.e. windpipe and lungs).

The disease is said to be caused by a virus called COVID -19. It has spread throughout the globe and has therefore been characterized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO).

How does the virus spread?

Who is at risk?

The elderly (aged 80 years and above) with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease are most vulnerable when it comes to the Coronavirus. Anyone can also be infected with the virus when exposed to it.

Signs and symptoms of the Virus

According to WHO up to 80% of individuals who become infected appear to have mild symptoms and may not even know they are sick. Symptoms begin to show after 2 to 14 days or more after one becomes infected or exposed to the virus. Others also show no sign or symptom of infection.

Mild symptoms may include;

• Cold / running nose
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Headache and
• Decreased sense of smell or taste.
  

Severe symptoms may also include;

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Severe vomiting and diarrhea

How to avoid contracting the Virus

Wash your hands with soap under running water as frequently as possible for at least 20 seconds.

Use an alcohol-based sanitizer to rub your hands as frequently as possible.

Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze with a tissue or your bent elbow. Ensure to dispose of the tissue after use.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands when dirty or not washed and sanitized.

Avoid large events and social gatherings. Also keep a social distance when interacting with people especially those coughing or sneezing or when in public transport or area.

Wear a cloth face mask in public areas.

Stay home when you do not have anything essential doing in town to avoid contact or exposure to the virus.

Wash your hands with the soap and water made available at the entrance of the banking hall before you enter. Also, ensure to sanitize your hands on your way out after transacting with us.

What to do when you feel unwell

(Or when you experience mild symptoms of the virus)

Stay home when you feel unwell

Visit a healthcare center when you feel unwell or seek medical advice from your doctor.

Contact Ghana’s Covid-19 hotline phone numbers on 0552222005 / 0509497700 / 055222204 for assistance.