You have come into contact with someone that was diagnosed with the new coronavirus (COVID-19): What now?
The incubation period (time from infection to showing coronavirus symptoms) ranges between 2 to 14 days. If you develop any symptoms of the coronavirus in this timeframe, you will have to be tested for the virus.
Why not just test me immediately?
It takes time for the coronavirus to multiply to a level where we can detect it with laboratory techniques.
Can’t you just give me medicine in case I do have the coronavirus?
Since this is a virus, any treatment is supportive – that means the symptoms of the coronavirus are treated, but there is no medicine to kill the coronavirus, you need to allow your body’s immune system to kill the virus.
What should I do?
We are requesting you to self-quarantine. This means that although you do not have symptoms yet, you need to stay away from people to prevent the coronavirus from spreading more.
But can I give the coronavirus (COVID-19) to someone even if I don’t feel bad?
Yes, evidence suggests that you may be able to pass the virus to someone else even before you show symptoms.
Can I go to work?
It is advised to refrain from going to work, doing so may spread the coronavirus to colleagues. Your general practitioner can provide a sick note to be shared with your employer.
Can I go to school?
It is advised to refrain from going to school, doing so may spread the coronavirus to other students or teachers. Your general practitioner can provide a sick note to be shared with the school.
Can I meet my friends?
It is advised to avoid social contact. Partaking in social contact may spread the coronavirus to your family and friends.
Can I go shopping, visit a public place or use public transport?
It is advised to refrain from visiting any public place (shops, churches, entertainment areas) or using public transport, doing so may spread the coronavirus to other people.
What am I supposed to do? It is advised to stay at home during the monitoring period. To protect those around you:
Clean your hands frequently, using an alcohol-based hand rub or soap.
Keep a distance from healthy individuals (not showing respiratory symptoms) as much as possible (at least 1 meter).
Wear a medical mask as frequently as possible.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with disposable paper tissue, or cough and sneeze into your elbow. Dispose of the material after use and clean your hands immediately with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.
Improve airflow in living spaces at home by opening windows and doors as much as possible.
How will I be monitored?
We will send you a link via email every day to ask you if you are experiencing any symptoms. Please click on the link and answer the questions every day, even if you do not have any symptoms. If you do not have access to email or internet, someone will call you every day to ask if you are experiencing symptoms. Please ensure that you will be available to provide this information.
How long will I be monitored?
For 14 days after the last time you had contact with the person who had a confirmed infection with coronavirus (COVID-19).
What symptoms of the coronavirus should I be looking out for?
A measured body temperature of 38°C or more, chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, myalgia or body pains, diarrhoea (passage of three or more loose or liquid stools per day).
I have symptoms, should I wait for the email or call?
No, as soon as you develop symptoms of the coronavirus, please contact the hotline immediately.
What will happen then?
Depending on which symptoms and the severity, we will collect a swab from you and test for the coronavirus.
Supplied by the Department of Health
Credit Source: https://sacoronavirus.co.za/category/tool-kits/