Prof Cheryl Cohen answers Breakfast's coronavirus questions
Prof. Cheryl Cohen, a senior lecturer and co-head of the centre of respiratory disease and meningitis at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, joined Breakfast with Martin Bester to answer coronavirus questions of concern.
A week ago, we didn't think that Covid-19 (coronavirus) would become a pandemic.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared the coronavirus outbreak in South Africa a national disaster.
Ramaphosa addressed the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday on a raft of measures approved by cabinet to slow the spread of the virus.
A total of 61 South Africans have tested positive for Covid-19 to date.
READ: Coronavirus measures announced by President Ramaphosa
President Ramaphosa and his cabinet agreed that there will be measures put in place to prevent the virus spreading further.
Here are some of the measures:
- Travel ban on high-risk countries from March 18.
- South African citizens to not travel to high-risk countries.
- Gatherings of more than 100 people are prohibited.
- Large events and celebrations are cancelled.
- Schools closed from Wednesday, 18 March until Easter weekend.
Professor Cheryl Cohen, a senior lecturer and co-head of the centre of respiratory disease and meningitis at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, joined Breakfast with Martin Bester to answer questions of concern.
"The speech of the president was pro-active and he showed leadership. The numbers are increasing. It shows us the number of coronaviruses out there," Cohen said.
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?
"You don't know when you have the coronavirus - because it's like a common cold. You can get the virus without knowing you have it. You first must get tested to know if you have the virus."
WHAT IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO PROTECT OURSELVES?
"The virus can live on an object for 9 days. Normal soap and water are very effective to wash things and your hands.
"The virus is spread through droplets - it can travel for about one meter. Another way the virus can spread is through contact.
"Stay a meter away from other people and don't shake hands."
CAN YOU GET IT TWICE?
"There is no evidence on it for now."
SHOULD WE GET FLU SHOTS?
"The flu shot will reduce the chances of getting the virus."
CAN CHILDREN GET THE VIRUS?
"Children can get the virus, however, they are the minority. They are much less affected than adults.
"Self-isolation is recommended if they have been exposed but not yet sick. If you are not sick after 14 days, you probably won't get sick."