The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019 nCoV) is a new strain of respiratory virus that has never been seen in humans and is currently causing an outbreak in Wuhan, China. Here is some essential information about 2019-nCoV to help you proactively protect yourself and your family.

The current public health emergency is in part similar to the emergence of SARS in southern China in 2002. Both occurred in the winter with initial cases linked to exposure to live animals sold in animal markets, and both were caused by previously unknown coronaviruses.

When you have symptoms of suspected 2019-nCoV infection, you need to go to medical facilities for timely diagnosis to avoid infecting others. In addition, each person can protect themselves and their families from the 2019 corona virus epidemic by washing their hands regularly with soap and water, wearing masks, limiting going to crowded places...

You need to get tested for 2019-nCoV infection if you have symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing... Or have been in close contact with a person suspected of being infected with 2019-nCoV and waiting for test results, a person confirmed to be infected, a person who has been to an epidemic area in China... within the previous 14 days.

To learn more about the 2019 coronavirus epidemic, you can refer to the following sections of the document: [Questions and Answers about the 2019 coronavirus epidemic] Part 1: Origin and form of infection [Questions and Answers about the 2019 coronavirus epidemic] Part 2: How to protect yourself from the epidemic? [Questions and Answers about the 2019 coronavirus epidemic] Part 3: When to get tested? Instructions for caring for people suspected of being infected with 2019 nCoV at home

Hand sanitizers are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience. However, experts say that hand sanitizers should not be used regularly as they are not a substitute for soap and water.