What is the Disease?

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new strain of coronavirus, first identified in a cluster with pneumonia symptoms in Wuhan city, Hubei province of China.

Most of the cases were epidemiologically linked to the seafood and animal market.

How is the virus transmitted?

Novel Coronavirus strains are spread from person to person through contaminated droplets from a person who is sick with the illness (through coughing or sneezing) or contaminated hands. The virus can spread through touching an infected surface.

The incubation period extends from 1 to 14 days (that means the amount of time from being exposed to the virus to showing symptoms)

What are the ways to prevent the disease?

• Washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
• Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
• Covering mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth without washing your hands.
• Avoid shaking hands and just wave. 
• Avoid nose-to-nose greeting, hugging or kissing others.
• Avoid contact with animals (live or dead).
• Take enough rest and take a large amount of fluids.

Self-care

If you have mild symptoms, stay at home until you’ve recovered. You can relieve your symptoms if you:

• rest and sleep
• keep warm
• drink plenty of liquids
• use a room humidifier or take a hot shower to help ease a sore throat and cough

Supportive treatments

If you develop a fever, cough, and have difficulty breathing, promptly seek medical care. Call in advance and tell your health provider of any recent travel or recent contact with travelers.

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public