WHO

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION 
On 31 December 2019, the WHO China Country Office was informed about cases of pneumonia of unknown cause, detected in Wuhan City, China. The Chinese authorities identified a new type of coronavirus, subsequently named COVID-19. On 30 January 2020, WHO Director-General declared the outbreak of COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on 11 March 2020, he declared the outbreak a pandemic. 

Importantly, it is a pandemic that can be controlled. All countries can still change the course of this pandemic with decisive action. Describing the situation as a pandemic does not change WHO’s assessment of the threat posed by this virus, and it does not change what WHO is doing, and what countries should do.

The Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services in collaboration with the WHO Country Office for Sri Lanka is closely monitoring the situation and strengthening preparedness. We are closely working with key institutions like the Ministry of Foreign Relations and Points of Entry authorities, among others. 

Rumors and misinformation can facilitate transmission and cost lives. We encourage everyone to seek high-quality, valid sources of information that empower our friends, families, colleagues and communities to stay healthy. Solidarity is one of our more formidable weapons. We all have a part to play and we must all look out for one another. 

To prevent COVID-19, follow these 7 steps: 

  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly 
  • Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes 
  • Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with the bend of your elbow or tissue (if you use a tissue, dispose of it immediately in a closed bin and wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer) 
  • Avoid crowded places
  • Stay at home if you don’t feel well (fever and respiratory symptoms)
  • If you have symptoms (fever, cough, and difficulty breathing) seek medical care,  first by phone
  • Keep up-to-date on the latest information from verified sources like MoH and WHO

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Premonition for COVID-19 pandemic