Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new virus that had not been previously identified in humans.
Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. There is currently no treatment for this virus. The only way to avoid this is to avoid being exposed to the virus.
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
At a time like this, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that we practice social distancing. This means you should avoid all public gatherings such as going to restaurants and markets. The World Health Organization recommends that you must avoid ALL UNNECESSARY TRAVEL so that you do not spread the virus to your family and friends.
This virus is deadly to older people and those with weak immune systems (such as people with diabetes and heart problems). As students of DIU, it is your responsibility to help your community fight this. As the WHO and US CDC suggest, you could be carrying the virus without displaying symptoms. You could spread the virus to your family without even knowing you are doing so. We highly recommend that you stay at home unless it is extremely important.
This disease can affect everyone so it is important that every individual must be involved in the fight. Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing. Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
This isn’t an easy time. Understanding the wider global impact of coronavirus is hard enough. DIU is taking steps to protects its students and staff. But it is important that individuals take care not to spread the virus.
