COVID-19, previously called the Novel Coronavirus, is part of a family of viruses that includes the common cold, SARS and MERS.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Fever
• Acute diarrhoea

In severe cases symptoms may also include:

• Pneumonia
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome
• Kidney failure

Following concerns in regard to the spread of the COVID-19, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Airport Authority of Trinidad and Tobago and the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, began thermal screening at the nation’s major ports of entry as part of this country’s Infectious Disease Protocol and will be employed in the Government’s efforts to detect the possible entry of persons who may be displaying symptoms of COVID-19.

These scanners are also in place at the nation’s major air and sea ports including the Port of Port of Spain and the Port of Cedros.

Prevention is the most important action you can take to protect yourself and your family from getting COVID-19. The Ministry of Health urges the population to:

• Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow if you do not have a tissue
• Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms
• Thoroughly cook meat and eggs before consumption

Information Provided by: health.gov.tt