No advice from Health Dept to wear masks, says St John

THE St John Ambulance PNG says there is no advice from the Health Department for people to wear respiratory masks.
It made this known on its Facebook page on Friday after receiving inquiries from businesses and individuals if it had P2 (N95) respiratory masks in stock to protect people from the coronavirus.
“At this point in time, there is no need for panic,” it said.
“The Department of Health has confirmed again today that there is no evidence the coronavirus has reached Papua New Guinea.
“The World Health Organisation recommends respiratory masks should be worn if you will be in close contact with a person who has symptoms of respiratory illness – cough, fever, shortness of breath or sore throat – this would typically be a nurse, doctor or a paramedic treating a patient.
“Also just as important for reducing your chance of getting sick is washing your hands with soap and regularly.
“A person who has an acute respiratory illness should consider wearing a surgical mask if he/she is around other people, especially if he/she is coughing.
“But, better still, if you are sick, stay home.”