First off, do not panic or fall prey to scalpers on online marketplaces like Carousell selling surgical masks for $5 each. For one thing, experts say that surgical masks are not totally effective against the virus. The executive director of Singapore’s National Centre for Infectious Diseases Professor Leo Yee Sin has even said that surgical masks can only help block large particle droplets from reaching others. However, a surgical mask is not needed for those without any respiratory symptoms. “We need to have a community effort – for those individuals who display symptoms, put on a mask. This will give safety margins to many of the people without symptoms around them," he adds.
SINGAPORE (Feb 7): The novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), also known as the Wuhan coronavirus, has been declared a global emergency by the World Health Organisation. Said to have originated in Wuhan province in China, the coronavirus pandemic – which causes respiratory illness – has infected thousands worldwide. With information changing so quickly, many are understandably worried. But with any outbreak, staying healthy and alert is key to combating the virus. Here are five ways you can stay safe and healthy in the meantime.
Don’t panic!
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