What is the CovidConnect Service

FAQ'S

What is COVID-19?

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Coronaviruses are known to cause illness ranging from the mild Community-acquired Coronaviruses to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

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What are the typical symptoms of the infection?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Some patients may have loss of sense of smell, aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get COVID-19 become seriously ill and develop difficulty in breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to become seriously ill . People with fever, cough and difficulty in breathing should seek immediate medical attention.

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Can a client book an appointment for voluntary testing of COVID- 19 at UGMC?

No. Health care services that are currently provided at UGMC can found here.

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Is the COVID-19 test free?

Yes. (In government facilities)

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Is COVID- 19 treatment free?

Yes (In government facilities)

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How long does it take to receive the results of the Test?

This may range from 24hrs to 1 week, depending on the volume at the processing center at that particular time.

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Will drinking a strong alcoholic drink kill the virus in an infected person?

No.

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Is holding of one's breath for 10 seconds, a test to determine whether one is infected?

Being able to hold your breath for 10 seconds or more without coughing or feeling discomfort DOES NOT mean you are free from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or any other lung disease. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are dry cough, tiredness and fever. Some people may develop more severe forms of the disease, such as pneumonia. The best way to confirm if you have the virus producing COVID-19 disease is with a laboratory test. You cannot confirm it with this breathing exercise, which may even be dangerous.

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Will drinking hot water or inhaling hot water kill the virus?

No

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Is there treatment for COVID-19?

While some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of COVID-19, there is no evidence that current medicine can prevent or treat the disease. However, there are several ongoing clinical trials that include both western and traditional medicines. We will provide updated information as soon as clinical findings and research outcomes at UGMC are available.

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What are some of the underlying health conditions that can worsen the symptoms of someone with COVID-19 infection?

While we are still learning about how COVID-2019 affects people, older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes appear to develop serious illness more often than others.

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Is COVID-19 airborne?

The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. These droplets are typically too heavy to hang in the air. They quickly fall on floors or surfaces. You can be infected by breathing in the virus if you are within 1 metre of a person who has COVID-19, or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands.

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What can I do to protect myself from getting infected with COVID-19?

Standard recommendations to reduce exposure to and transmission of COVID-19 include maintaining basic hand and respiratory hygiene, staying at home as much as possible especially if you feel unwell, avoiding touching your face and avoiding close contact ( keeping a distance of at least 1 metre from other people when outside) when possible, especially with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.

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Can a young person be affected with COVID-19?

Yes, anyone could be affected with COVID-19, even young people.

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Which types of food can I eat to boost my immunity to help protect me from succumbing to the infection?

Eating a healthy diet that contains the nutrients you need is the best way to support your immunity. Dietitians recommend filling half of your plate with vegetables and fruit, and the rest of it with protein-rich foods, like eggs, chicken, fish and beans and some whole grains like brown rice or oats.

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Is the wearing of a facial mask by healthy individuals useful as a preventive method?

Wearing a mask prevents an infected individual, who may still look healthy from spreading the virus, through droplets from the nose and mouth to other people and may serve as a barrier against droplets for an uninfected person. Any cloth fabric can be used to cover the nose and mouth if a mask is not readily available.

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Is wearing gloves useful as a preventative measure against COVID-19?

No, wearing gloves should not be used as a preventive measure. In fact, the improper removal and disposal of gloves could pose greater risk. If gloves are worn, proper hand washing should be done right after they are removed.

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How is the test for COVID-19 done?

Testing for COVID-19 involves inserting a 6-inch long swab (like a long Q-tip) into the cavity between the nose and mouth (nasopharyngeal swab) for 15 seconds and rotating the swab several times. Swabbing may also be done from the back of your throat (oropharyngeal swab) or you may be asked to expectorate a sputum sample. The samples are inserted into a container and sent to a lab for testing.

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What other services are currently available at the UGMC?

Kindly visit www.ugmedicalcentre.org for details on services currently available at the Centre.

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