At the beginning of the year, an epidemic caused by the new coronavirus COVID-19 began in China. Epidemics have developed widely around the world and in Europe. The risk of infection has increased throughout Finland. In recent days, an increasing number of coronavirus infections have been diagnosed. All infection chains are no longer known.
At the situation, it´s important to do all we can to slow down the progression of the epidemic. Measures implemented by the Government have included the closure of schools and educational institutions, restrictions on public meetings and mobility, an increase in social and health care capacities and the restriction of border traffic. The best way to protect oneself from the coronavirus is good hand hygiene and staying at home.
The symptoms of the coronavirus (COVID-19) include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Most of those catching the virus have a normal respiratory inflection, or a cold. If you do not have severe symptoms, stay at home and rest. It is important to prevent the virus from spreading to other people for whom the virus may be dangerous. The virus is dangerous especially for old people in particular and for those with other lung and heart diseases.
Hand hygiene: You should wash your hands with plenty of water and soap or hand wash for twenty seconds. Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze You should dispose of the tissue immediately after you have used it. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, do not use your hands.
WHO: How to handwash (pdf)
If you get ill – How to act in Muurame
In mild cases, stay at home and follow the normal home care instructions, which are the same as with all flu infections: rest, drink plenty of fluids and take a painkiller from your home pharmacy if necessary.
If you are having serious symptoms such as shortness of breath or high fever, on weekdays call tel. +358 14 266 2791. Att all other times, please call the helpline tel. 116 117. It is important that patients call this number first to receive personal advice on when to arrive at a health centre or hospital. Stay home and do not leave for the health centre or hospital while waiting for the call back, because this could put everyone else at the healthcare facility at risk of contracting the virus.
General information on Coronavirus covid-19 from the nationwide consultation phonenumber: +358 295 535 535 on weekdays 8-21, on Saturdays 9-15. Please note that health instructions for acute flu symptoms occasions is not available from this phonenumber.
