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What should you keep in mind when choosing pills to manage your allergies?

What should you keep in mind when choosing pills to manage your allergies?

If you are prone to seasonal allergy symptoms, it's recommended that you start taking allergy medication two weeks before you anticipate your symptoms starting.

When choosing an over-the-counter pill for your allergies, you need to consider your symptoms, any other medications you take and if you need a non-drowsy allergy solution, as drowsiness is one of the major side effects of some antihistamines. It is important to read all medication labels and talk with your doctor or pharmacist about your medication regimen before you start taking any allergy medication.

Are nasal sprays the right solution for your allergies?

Are nasal sprays the right solution for your allergies?

Nasal decongestant sprays and aerosols inserted directly into your nose can help relieve nasal and sinus congestion, but should only be used for a short time, as continued use may worsen any congestion symptoms. 

In order to avoid this, it is recommended that you do not use these medications for more than approximately five days and do not exceed recommended dosage.

How does immunotherapy treat allergies?

How does immunotherapy treat allergies?

Immunotheraphy is considered to be one of the most effective ways to treat seasonal allergies caused by pollen. Immunotherapy treatments can include traditional "allergy shots," and for other allergens, tablets that are placed under the tongue and swallowed as they dissolve. Immunotherapy allergy treatments expose you to gradual increments of your allergen over time, so your body learns to tolerate it instead of developing allergic symptoms.

Can chamomile improve your sleep?

Can chamomile improve your sleep?

Chamomile has a calming effect thanks to an antioxidant called apigenin, which works on certain brain cell receptors that help you relax and fall asleep. While chamomile is generally viewed as safe, it can interact with certain medicines - check with your doctor or pharmacist before including it in your daily routine. To reap the benefits of chamomile, sip a mug of tea before bed or take 200-270 milligrams of chamomile extract, twice a day.

 
How does magnesium impact your quality of sleep?

How does magnesium impact your quality of sleep?

Low levels of magnesium may make it harder for you to fall or stay asleep, and studies have shown that magnesium supplements may help older people and those with restless legs syndrome sleep better. Get enough magnesium in your diet by including nuts and leafy greens. 

 
Can lavender help you sleep?

Can lavender help you sleep?

The scent of lavender slows your heart rate and lowers your blood pressure and skin temperature, which can help prepare you for sleep - a study has shown that those sleeping in a lavender-scented room slept deeper than those who didn't. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your pillowcase to try this at home.

 
What is melatonin and how can it help you sleep?

What is melatonin and how can it help you sleep?

Melatonin is a hormone that tells your body when to sleep and wake. Research has shown that melatonin supplements can help those who struggle to fall or stay asleep. While melatonin is generally safe for healthy adults to take on a short-term basis, always consult with your pharmacist or doctor before taking new medication.

Why is it called COVID-19?

Why is it called COVID-19?

COVID-19 stands for “coronavirus disease 2019” and is the name of the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

COVID-19 refers to the illnesses, not the virus, where:

  • SARS stands for “severe acute respiratory syndrome”
  • CoV stands for “coronavirus”
  • 2 represents the second strain of this type of coronavirus (the first appeared in 2003 and caused SARS)
Can a lack of sleep weaken your immune system?

Can a lack of sleep weaken your immune system?

Yes, not getting enough sleep can make you more likely to catch viruses or germs, and also increase your recovery time. Your body needs sleep to make antibodies, which help protect your body from illness. 

Does anxiety weaken your immune system?

Does anxiety weaken your immune system?

Did you know that having anxious thoughts can weaken your immune response in as little as 30 minutes? Constant stress has an even greater impact on your immune system and makes it harder to fight off the flu, herpes, shingles, and other viruses. Talk to your doctor if your anxiety impacts your daily life.

Can low levels of vitamin D weaken your immune system?

Can low levels of vitamin D weaken your immune system?

Yes, as vitamin D helps boost your immune system. You can get vitamin D from eggs, fatty fish, and fortified foods like milk and cereal, as well as from natural sunlight.

Can smoking weaken your immune system?

Can smoking weaken your immune system?

Yes, nicotine from cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or any other source can weaken your body’s ability to fight germs - including vaping. Be aware of the other chemicals in e-liquids that can also suppress your immune response, not only the nicotine. 

Does drinking alcohol weaken your immune system?

Does drinking alcohol weaken your immune system?

It only takes one incident of overindulging in alcohol to slow your body’s ability to fight germs for up to 24 hours. Over time, drinking too much damages your body’s ability repair itself. If you drink alcohol, try to keep it to one drink a day for women and two drinks for men. 

Can a lack of exercise weaken your immune system?

Can a lack of exercise weaken your immune system?

Yes, as regular aerobic exercise appears to help your body fight illness caused by viruses and bacteria. Exercise helps blood get around your body more efficiently, which means germ-fighters get where they need to go.

How long are you contagious if you have chickenpox?

How long are you contagious if you have chickenpox?

This viral rash causes a fever or sore throat and itchy spots all over your body, but, a vaccine means most children don’t get it anymore, but if they do, it’s very contagious. Keep them home until all the sores crust over to avoid others catching the virus.

 
How long are you contagious if you have conjunctivitis?

How long are you contagious if you have conjunctivitis?

If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, you can spread it to others for as long as you notice symptoms or for 24 hours after you start antibiotic drops. If you have the milder, viral form, you are contagious while you have symptoms and for a day or two before symptoms appear..

How long are you contagious if you have a cold?

How long are you contagious if you have a cold?

Much like the flu, you’re contagious a day or two before this starts and for as long as you feel sick, usually a week or two, although this can be longer in those who have existing breathing problems or a weak immune system. You’re more likely to infect others during in the first few days, when symptoms are at their worst.

 
How long are you contagious if you have the flu?

How long are you contagious if you have the flu?

Did you know that you can actually infect someone before you start feeling symptoms of the flu? You are most contagious in the 3 to 4 days after you start to feel sick, but you remain contagious as long as you have symptoms - usually a week.

 
Which products don't work when trying to disinfect your home?

Which products don't work when trying to disinfect your home?

1. Contrary to some claims, white vinegar is not an effective disinfectant and should not be used.

2. Vodka is not an effective disinfectant, as it does not contain a high enough percentage of alcohol.

3. Tea tree oil is not a disinfectant.

How do you make sure you're using the four popular disinfectant methods effectively?

How do you make sure you're using the four popular disinfectant methods effectively?

1. When using bleach to disinfect surfaces, dilute four teaspoons of bleach in one litre of water for an effective cleaning solution.

2. Isopropyl alcohol can be used to disinfect surfaces, if the product contains more than 70% alcohol and is left to sit on the surface for at least 30 seconds.

3. Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective disinfectant for surfaces - if it is at least 3% strength and left to sit on the surface for at least one minute.

4. Soap and water, when used for at least 20 seconds, remains an effective disinfectant.

How effective is dexamethasone against COVID-19?

How effective is dexamethasone against COVID-19?

Approximately 2,100 patients received a 6mg daily dose of dexamethasone for 10 days in the Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy Trial, conducted by the University of Oxford. According to the scientists involved, one in three deaths could be prevented among patients on ventilators, and one in five deaths prevented for patients on oxygen.

 
How is dexamethasone working against COVID-19?

How is dexamethasone working against COVID-19?

Dexamethasone appears to help high-risk patients COVID-19 patients, particularly those who need oxygen or mechanical ventilation. At this stage, dexamethasone appears to help stop some of the damage that can happen when the body's immune system goes into overdrive - known as a cytokine storm - as it tries to fight off coronavirus.

 
What is dexamethasone currently used to treat?

What is dexamethasone currently used to treat?

Dexamethasone is used in the treatment of a number of conditions involving inflammation or swelling in the body, including severe asthma which can cause inflammation in the airways and lungs, severe allergic reactions or painful, inflamed joints. Dexamethasone is also used to treat certain autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

 
What is dexamethasone?

What is dexamethasone?

Dexamethasone is a steroid, which works by reducing inflammation by through mimicking anti-inflammatory hormones produced by the body.

 
What natural remedies can you use to relieve flu symptoms?

What natural remedies can you use to relieve flu symptoms?

1. Drink water and fluids

2. Get plenty of rest

3. Increase your zinc intake, to help your immune system make germ-fighting white blood cells

4. Gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat

5. Drink herbal tea, made with antibacterial or antifungal herbs - such as star anise, ginger or tumeric

6. Apply essential oils - such as tea tree or eucalyptus - both natural antibiotics and antivirals

7. Use a humidifier - as the flu virus survives longer in dry air

8. Inhale steam to help soothe your sinuses, throat and chest

9. Eat a bland diet, if you are suffering from nausea, stomach cramps or diarrhea

 

 
When is the best time to take vitamins A, D, E and K?

When is the best time to take vitamins A, D, E and K?

As these are fat-soluble vitamins, they are better digested with food or fat, as this will help absorption.

 
When is the best time to take vitamin B and C?

When is the best time to take vitamin B and C?

As these are mainly water-soluble vitamins, you are able to take them any time of the day. The exception is vitamin B1, which is fat soluble, and is best taken with food or fat.

 
How can you prevent your child from getting a cold or the flu?

How can you prevent your child from getting a cold or the flu?

There are a few ways to decrease the chances of your child – or yourself – getting sick:

1. Wash hands frequently

2. Avoid touching your face and eyes

3. Throw away used tissues away immediately

4. Get the flu vaccine

 
When should you take your child to a doctor for their cold or flu?

When should you take your child to a doctor for their cold or flu?

If your child's symptoms persist or get worse, speak to your GP. Seek immediate medical advice if you notice any of these symptoms

1. Distressed, noisy or rapid breathing 

2. Unusual grunting sounds

3. Weak, high-pitched or continuous cry

4. Pale, mottled, greyish or blue-tinged skin, lips or tongue

5. Unnatural drowsiness

6. Respiratory (breathing) rate greater than 60 breaths per minute

7. Decreased volume of urine

8. Refusal to drink water or inability to hold any water due to vomiting

9. Temperature of 38°C in children younger than three months, or 39°C and above in children between three and six months old

 

How do you know if your child has a cold or the flu?

How do you know if your child has a cold or the flu?

A child with flu will have similar symptoms to those of a cold, but they're more intense and last for longer. They may have a reduced appetite, tiredness and aches and possible ear pain if their middle ear becomes infected. A fever is a normal symptom of the flu, however if your child is under three months old and has a temperature of 38°C or above, or is between three and six months old and has a temperature of 39°C or above, you should take them to the doctor.

Flu can also cause shortness of breath, wheezing and a harsh cough. It's important to keep close watch of children with these symptoms, even at night. 

How do you treat colds and flu in children?

How do you treat colds and flu in children?

1. Make sure they rest at home. By not sending your child back to school until their fever, nose and throat symptoms are gone you will also help to prevent the spread of colds or flu.

2. Let your child rest as much as possible and offer water frequently.

3. Keep your child warm but take care to avoid overheating.

4. Control fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen in syrups.

Take special care with cough syrups since there are age restrictions on most preparations. Check with your pharmacist about which preparations are most suitable for your child. Preparations may contain decongestants (for a blocked nose), expectorants (that loosen and thin your mucus so you can cough it up), antihistamines to aid sleep or cough suppressants.

Antibiotics are not used to treat colds and the flu since they have no effect on viruses. They are only useful in bacterial infections.

 
How can you make sure you're using your face mask properly?

How can you make sure you're using your face mask properly?

1. Remember that wearing a face mask does not replace the need for social distancing, handwashing or proper respiratory hygiene practices. 

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or hand sanitizer before putting on your mask - avoid touching your face, and make sure your nose and mouth are covered.

3. Avoid touching your face mask while you are wearing it.

4. Remove your face mask from the back, and wash your hands once removed.

5. Wash your face mask after each wear.

6. Face masks should not be used on children under the age of two years. 

 

What are the benefits of wearing a face mask?

What are the benefits of wearing a face mask?

Face masks are particularly important in indoor spaces, where physical distancing can be more difficult - including stores, public transport and certain work situtations. It is important to wash your hands before and after putting on and removing your face mask, and to avoid touching our face while you're wearing one. Reusable, cloth face masks need to be washed at 60 degrees Celcius after each wear.

While wearing a face mask is important, it does not replace the need for good respiratory hygiene, which includes covering your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when sneezing, coughing, blowing or wiping your nose - and disposing of the tissue in a closed bin.

 

How can I be healthier as we come out of lockdown?

How can I be healthier as we come out of lockdown?

As we start to emerge from lockdown, it's a good time to look at how you can adopt healthier habits. This includes adding regular exercise into your day - aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, which can include brisk walking or riding a bicycle. It's also important to maintain a healthy diet - and, to stop smoking, if this is a habit you have. Our pharmacists can advise on products to help you quit, if needed. 

 

Who is most at risk from cold and flu symptoms?

Who is most at risk from cold and flu symptoms?

A cold or flu is unpleasant for anyone, but some groups are more at risk of complications (such as ear, sinus or chest infections).

These groups include the elderly, pregnant women, those with weakened immune systems and those with long-term medical conditions. If you're in one of these groups, you should seek your GP's advice you're worried about cold or flu symptoms.

When should you visit a doctor for your symptoms?

Which should you visit a doctor for your symptoms?

Visit a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms and are concerned:

• A high temperature above 39°C

• Sharp chest pains

• Difficulty breathing 

• Swollen glands in your neck and/or armpits 

• Severe earache 

• If your symptoms last longer than three weeks for cold symptoms, or seven days for flu symptoms

Which treatments don’t work for colds and flu?

Which treatments don't work for colds and flu?

Antibiotics won't treat cold or flu symptoms, as these conditions are caused by a viral infection, not bacterial.

How are flu symptoms treated and managed?

How are flu symptoms treated and managed?

If you’re otherwise healthy, there should be no need to visit your doctor if you have the flu. As with a cold, the best way to recover is to rest at home, keep warm and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. It may help to take cold relief remedies for the cold-like symptoms you have with flu. 

You can take over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol to decrease a high temperature and relieve aches if necessary. Ask your pharmacist for more information about medicines for flu relief. 

For a faster recovery - and, importantly, to avoid spreading the virus, it’s best to stay home from work or school until your symptoms improve. For most people, this takes at least a week.

How are cold symptoms treated and managed?

How are cold symptoms treated and managed?

There's no cure for the cold, but symptoms tend not to be long lasting and will clear up on their own. You can help to relieve cold symptoms by:

1. Resting, drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables

2. Taking painkillers

3. Using decongestant sprays or tablets to help relieve a blocked nose 

4. Gargling salt water and sucking on lozenges to help relieve a sore throat 

5. A cough mixture may also help to soothe a troublesome cough

Talk to your pharmacist about which treatments will be most suitable for you, as not all over the counter treatments are suitable for everyone.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Flu is a widespread infectious viral illness spread by coughs and sneezes. While symptoms generally resolve within a week, it can last longer. 

Cold-like symptoms can be signs of the flu, although they tend to be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

1. A sudden high temperature (fever) of 38°C or above 

2. Tiredness and weakness 

3. A headache 

4. General aches and pains 

5. A dry, chesty cough

What are the symptoms of the common cold?

What are the symptoms of the common cold?

Colds are caused by a virus and very common - they usually clear up within a week. The main symptoms of a cold include:

1. A sore throat 

2. A blocked or runny nose 

3.  Sneezing 

4. A cough 

Symptoms, such as a fever, headache and aching muscles can occasionally occur as well, although these tend to be more commonly associated with the flu. 

How do probiotics help my immune system?

How do probiotics help my immune system?

Approximately 70% of the immune system is controlled by the gut. Gut-friendly bacteria are an essential part of the immune system, as these bacteria regulate the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells.

How do multivitamins help my immune system?

How do multivitamins help my immune system?

Adequate micronutrients in the body help the immune system to function best. When there is a deficiency of micronutrients in the body, immunity is surpressed, leaving the body susceptible to infections 

How does iron help my immune system?

How does iron help my immune system?

Iron is an essential mineral that helps to transport oxygen throughout the body, and is fundamental to the growth of B cells and T cells, which are major cellular components of the body's immune response.

How does zinc help boost my immunity?

How does zinc help boost my immunity?

Zinc has the natural ability to help the immune system function efficiently. Zinc is needed for white blood cells to function optimally, in order to protect the body from illness and infection.

How does Vitamin C help boost my immunity?

How does Vitamin C help boost my immunity?

As essential nutrient, Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight free radicals, a molecule known to damage the immune system.

How does Vitamin D help my immune system?

How does Vitamin D help my immune system?

Our bodies need enough Vitamin D to produce the antimicrobial proteins that kill viruses and bacteria. If we don't have adequate Vitamin D, our bodies are less effective at producing these proteins and more prone to illness.

What do I do if I think I have COVID-19?

What do I do if I think I have COVID-19?

1. Stay home, except to seek medical care.

2. Separate yourself from other people at home - stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom, if possible.

3. Monitor your symptoms - most common are fever and cough, and follow the care instructions from a medical professional or the Department of Health. If you have trouble breathing, seek medical care.

4. Call ahead before visiting a doctor, or opt for a telephonic consultation.

5. Wear a cloth mask covering your nose and mouth, and sneeze and cough into a tissue when you need to.

6. Wash your hands often - with soap and water for 20 seconds, or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

7. Avoid sharing personal household items.

8. Clean all high-touch household items and surfaces frequently.

How do I stay safe when at the ATM or petrol station?

How do I stay safe when at the ATM or petrol station?

1. Bank online wherever possible. 

2. When using an ATM, wipe the keypad with hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipe before using. Disinfect your hands with a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol after using the ATM.

3. Use disinfecting wipes on all handles and buttons at the petrol station before using. Once done, disinfect your hands with a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

How can I accept deliveries and take-out food safely?

How can I accept deliveries and take-out food safely?

1. Pay ahead of time or online, if possible.

2. Accept deliveries without in-person contact, where possible. Ask for deliveries to be handed over at a safe space outside your house, and stay 2m away from the delivery person.

3. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after accepting a delivery.

How can I stay safe when going to the doctor or pharmacy?

How can I stay safe when going to the doctor or pharmacy?

1. Choose a telephonic or virtual doctor's appointment, if possible.

2. If you must visit the doctor in person, protect yourself and others - wear a mask, don't touch your face, and adhere to social distancing guidelines.

3. If you think you have COVID-19, phone the doctor's offices before visiting, so they can advise you on the necessary steps to take.

4. If you have to visit the pharmacy, plan to order and collection all your prescriptions at the same time, to avoid unnecessary visits.

5. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you can collect a larger supply of your necessary medication to avoid having to visit the pharmacy as often. 

How can I stay safe when shopping for food and essentials?

How can I stay safe when shopping for food and essentials?

1. Order any items you can online, if possible.

2. When at the shops, stay at least two meters away from others and try and avoid shopping at peak times.

3. Wear a mask and do not touch your face.

4. Use contactless payment methods, if possible - for example, tap your card instead of handling cash or the keypad.

5. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as soon as you get home.

 
Can coronavirus spread through food?

Can coronavirus spread through food?

It's unlikely that the virus is spread through food. Coronaviruses typically spread through respiratory droplets on hands, and then touching the face. It's important to always ensure that meat and eggs are cooked properly, and handled properly during preparation. Follow good hand hygiene before, during and after cooking and eating. Avoid sharing utensils and eating from shared plates.

 
Can antibiotics kill the virus?

Can antibiotics treat COVID-19?

No, as COVID-19 is caused by a virus, and antibiotics do not work against any viruses. 

 
Are antihistamines still safe to take?

Are antihistamines still safe to take?

While it is important not to mistake hayfever symptoms for COVID-19, there is currently no evidence strong enough to suggest not taking any prescribed medication or medication that you would normally purchase over the counter to treat hayfever.

 
Who can I contact for more information?

Who can I contact for more information?

Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider, the Department of Health and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) on how to protect yourself and others from the coronavirus. Call the Department of Health’s 24-hour coronavirus hotline on 0800 029 999.

Could you become infected from just a single particle of coronavirus?

Could you become infected from just a single particle of coronavirus?

There’s a certain amount of viral particle that you need to be exposed to become infected. If you just had one viral particle on your finger, it’s unlikely that you’re going to be infected. Some viruses are very potent, where you only need exposure to a few particles in order to be infected, while other viruses require you to be exposed to millions of particles for infection to occur. Simply, the fewer viral particles you’re exposed to, the less likely you’re going to get infected. That’s why the amount of virus on a surface is important.

Is there any way to know whether someone has had COVID-19 in the past?

Is there any way to know whether someone has had COVID-19 in the past?

The COVID-19 antibody test determines whether you have had COVID-19 in the past and now have the antibodies against the virus. The antibody test is available at Clicks clinics nationwide. The test is a quick and painless finger prick with test results are available in 10 minutes. Book a COVID-19 antibody test at Clicks Clinic near you – R150

Could I have had COVID-19 and been asymptomatic?

Could I have had COVID-19 and been asymptomatic?

Coronavirus has a wide spectrum of symptoms, from people who are entirely asymptomatic and would have no idea that they have it to people with very mild, cold-like symptoms – runny nose, congestion, sore throat – to people with more flu-like symptoms – high fevers, muscle aches, shortness of breath and cough. The most serious cases see patients admitted to hospital with respiratory failure and requiring ICU care.

Are people who are asymptomatic also contagious?

Are people who are asymptomatic also contagious?

People are likely contagious one or two days before they start showing symptoms, as well as a few days after symptoms have resolved.

Should someone behave differently if they think they have had COVID-19?

Should someone behave differently if they think they have had COVID-19?

Since the only way to know for certain if you have had COVID-19 is to be swabbed and have your test come back positive, it is safer to act as if you hadn’t had it and continue to adhere to government’s lockdown and social distancing rules, and proper hand and health hygiene.

Are antihistamines still safe to take?

Are antihistamines still safe to take?

While it is important not to mistake hayfever symptoms for COVID-19, there is currently no evidence strong enough to suggest not taking any prescribed medication or medication that you would normally purchase over the counter to treat hayfever.

 
Does taking ibuprofen worsen the virus?

Does taking ibuprofen worsen the virus?

There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make COVID-19 worse, but until we have more information, we advise that you take paracetamol to treat any symptoms, unless your doctor has told you that paracetamol is not suitable for you. If you are already taking ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory on the advice of a doctor, you shouldn't stop taking it without their approval.

 
What is COVID-19?

What is COVID-19?

The COVID-19 virus is an infectious disease caused by a new type of coronavirus, which was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses (illnesses of the lungs) and include the common cold. The word ‘corona’ is Latin for ‘crown’; these viruses were named for the crown-like spikes scientists can see when viewing them under an electron microscope.

 
Who is most at risk of getting the COVID-19 virus?

Who is most at risk of getting the COVID-19 virus?

While absolutely anyone who comes into contact with this new type of coronavirus can contract it, people with weakened immune systems, those who have underlying health conditions – such as heart disease, diabetes and lung disease – and the elderly face the highest risk of developing moderate to very severe symptoms if they get it.

 
How does the COVID-19 virus spread?

How does the COVID-19 virus spread?

An infected person spreads the virus via respiratory droplets – tiny droplets of liquid that leave their body when they cough or sneeze. Others pick up the virus if they are close enough to inhale these tiny droplets. You can also become infected by touching surfaces on which these droplets may have landed and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands thoroughly. This is why it’s so important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and to avoid touching your face, in order to protect yourself and others from this new and rapidly spreading coronavirus.

 
What are the signs and symptoms of the COVID-19 virus?

What are the signs and symptoms of the COVID-19 virus?

According to the Department of Health, the most common symptoms are fever, tiredness and a dry cough. Some but not all infected people may experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, a runny nose, a sore throat or diarrhoea. In most cases, these symptoms are mild and come on slowly. Some people contract the COVID-19 virus but do not experience any symptoms whatsoever. These people can still pass on the virus, which is why it’s important for everyone to practice preventative measures. The majority of those infected – about 80 per cent – recover without any special treatment. However, an estimated one in every six people infected by the COVID-19 virus will become very sick and experience difficulty breathing. In severe cases, pneumonia may develop; in critical cases, multiple organ failure may occur.

 
How is the COVID-19 virus treated?

How is the COVID-19 virus treated?

While there are numerous trials taking place around the world, there is no specific antiviral medication available, so treatment is currently ‘supportive’. This means that – just as with the flu – you’ll be prescribed medication to treat your symptoms until they pass. For example, you may be given medication to lower your fever. In severe cases that require hospitalisation, patients may be given oxygen to help them breathe. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections. However, antibiotics may be necessary if you develop a secondary infection.

 
How is the COVID-19 virus diagnosed?

How is the COVID-19 virus diagnosed?

A healthcare worker will collect a sample for testing, usually by wiping your nose, mouth, or the back of your throat with what looks like a big earbud. This sample will be sent to a laboratory to undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. According to the NICD guidelines, if you test positive, the result will be confirmed by another test. If you test negative, the test will be repeated to verify the result. It can take up to 48 hours to get a confirmed result. If you think you might have the virus, contact your healthcare provider to find out if you should be tested and the best way to go about this. You can also call the Department of Health’s 24-hour coronavirus hotline on 0800 029 999.

 
How can I prevent infection?

How can I prevent infection?

There are several simple and effective measures you can take to protect yourself, your family and others from infection, including frequent and thorough hand washing, refraining from touching your face, always sneezing and coughing into your elbow or a tissue, and social distancing.

 
What precautions can I take post lockdown to reduce my risk of infection at work?

What precautions can I take post lockdown to reduce my risk of infection at work?

1. Avoid mass gatherings - including cafeterias and conferences
2. Double down on hygiene practices and be mindful about what you touch - wash your hands every time you touch a doorknob or press the lift buttons.
3. Practice physical distancing at work, and ensure you keep at least two meters between you
4. Take a protection and safety kit with you, including a face mask, hand sanitizer, hand soap, gloves, toilet seat sanitizer and tissues
5. Go digital, which not only saves paper, but also reduces the risk of coming in contact with papers that other people may have handled
6. Commuting to work - remember to wear a face mask, especially if you take public transport