There are ways to reduce the chance of getting coronavirus, local Walcha GP Dr Adrian Allen says.
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He said those at greater risk should give serious consideration to avoiding all but really necessary social interaction from now on.
Those at greater risk are those aged over 65 years, and people with chronic diseases of heart, lungs, kidneys, diabetes, cancer being treated at present and those on immunosuppressive medication.
The doctor's advice was to stay at home most of the time. Do not go out unnecessarily. If you are at risk, it is time now to start social isolation.
Also, minimise visitors. And never invite anyone in that has even a suggestion of a cold.
We are not yet at the stage that those not at risk need to curtail their activity. This may come. It has happened in China and is now in Spain and Italy.
Social distancing does work. This means one meter away from others and two meters if they are coughing
Hand washing should happen much more frequently than you are used to and for much longer (20-30 seconds).
Avoid touching your face if you have not washed your hands.
The only way the virus can infect you is through your eyes, nose or mouth.
Wear a mask only if sick. In general masks are there to stop infecting others rather than to stop you getting infected.
And for those that are infected, cover coughs and sneezes with tissues then always wash hands or use the inside of your elbow (not your hands).
"We all must be proactive in changing the way we live our lives to reduce the impact of the disease," Dr Allen said.
