ABOUT THE VIRUS What is COVID-19? • Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease of international public health concern caused by a “novel coronavirus” not previously seen. • Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERSCoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). • A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. • Coronaviruses are transmitted between animals and people. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans. • Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and trouble breathing. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. How does corona virus spread? It depends on the particular coronavirus. Human coronaviruses may spread by respiratory droplets from an infected person to others through: • The air by coughing and sneezing • Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands • Promote Infection Prevention Reduce the risk of transmission by: • Washing your hands often and correctly • Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing • Avoiding close contact with potentially infected individuals • Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting personal items • Staying home while you are sick • Contacting a doctor immediately in the event of symptoms Frequency of Hand Hygiene - When should I wash my hands? • After using the restroom • After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing • Before, during and after food preparation • Before eating • After contact with animals or pets • Before and after cleaning and disinfection • After contact with high-touch surfaces in the hotel • After removing PPE
Belize Enhanced Tour Operator Guidelines in response to Covid-19 - June 2020
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