The outbreak of COVID-19 has now spread to various countries. At this point, there are no COVID- 19 cases in Malta. In view of the current situation, the Health Authorities are expanding their surveillance to cover a wider area of travel to affected areas.

People who have fever, cough or shortness of breath within 14 days of visiting the following countries:

1. China
2. Hong Kong
3. Singapore
4. Japan
5. Iran
6. South Korea
7. Northern part of Italy – Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna

should contact their family doctor and the Health Authorities on 21324086. They are advised to refrain from visiting health centres or the casualty department in the first instance.

The Health Authorities are also advising people to avoid nonessential travel to the listed affected areas. People returning from these areas are being asked to self-quarantine for 14 days. The general public are reminded to take the necessary precautions for prevention of respiratory infections:

CLEAN: Clean hands often by washing with soap and water or using alcohol hand rub.

CONTAIN: Contain germs by staying at home if unwell; do not go to work or school until one is better. Do not visit patients in hospital if you are sick.

COVER: Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze into bare hands. Bin used tissues immediately. Do not leave tissues running around. Do not sneeze or cough into your hands as you may contaminate objects or people that you touch.