Armenian Girl Returned from China Discusses Coronavirus

Facebook user Lilit Ghazaryan, who has returned from China, made the following post:

“Several hundred Armenians living and working in China have returned and are returning to Armenia, including my family and me. The only check we underwent a moment ago at the airport in China was a body temperature measurement. However, the coronavirus can be asymptomatic, which means we could all be potential carriers of the virus… Upon arrival at the airport in Armenia, every passenger coming from China should have been immediately transferred to the hospital for a comprehensive medical examination. Measuring temperature is the same as doing nothing to prevent the virus from entering Armenia… I believe that some Chinese nationals have already arrived in Armenia during this time and left the airport without serious medical screening. Perhaps soon the Armenian Ministry of Health and other authorities will take serious measures regarding this issue, but that 'soon' is already too late…

P.S. 'The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia is implementing services under strict regimes. Meanwhile, our guests arriving from China are under control for the entire duration of their stay in the Republic of Armenia,' reports the Ministry of Health.

Let’s be healthy:

What is known about the new virus

The 2019-nCoV virus is a type of coronavirus that was not previously transmitted to humans. As of January 2020, coronaviruses are a family of viruses that include 39 types, of which only 7 infect humans. Researchers believe the virus has been transmitted to humans from animals but can also spread from person to person. Symptoms of infection include high fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. People are advised to avoid contact with animals, refrain from consuming undercooked seafood, meat, and eggs, and avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms.

How is Armenia trying to combat the incursion of the new virus

To prevent the introduction of new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) cases recorded in China into the Republic of Armenia, the Health and Labor Inspection Body (HLIB) has undertaken a number of measures. If a border-crossing person exhibits clinical symptoms characteristic of infectious diseases in addition to fever, the HLIB staff isolates the passenger to limit contact with the crew and other passengers. Their information is collected and recorded for transfer to the relevant authorities or polyclinic at the individual’s place of residence for further management.

The HLIB has also undertaken various awareness-raising measures in cooperation with the Ministry of Health. Specifically, informational posters have been installed at border health control points, informing about the new virus, how to avoid infection, and necessary steps to prevent its entry into the Republic of Armenia. In particular, when planning international trips, consider the epidemiological situation of the destination country, consult a doctor if flu-like symptoms appear, avoid self-medication, and seek medical assistance if symptomatic upon returning from China, mentioning your travel history.