In view of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the government of Uttar Pradesh has further extended the closure of school and colleges till April 02, 2020. The decision came after the meeting conducted by the cabinet ministers of UP government. At a press conference, the official Srikant Sharma told about the cabinet decisions that various competitive exams would also be adjourned for now. 

Earlier the schools and colleges of Uttar Pradesh state were closed till March 31, 2020, and the universities that were to conduct exams were open till March 18, 2020. Due to the increase in the cases of coronavirus, all state governments are taking serious actions to curb and control it. In the cabinet meeting, the government considered the closure or suspension of classes and other work in most educational institutions and state-run and private schools until further notice.

The statement has come in view of the spread of coronavirus in various states of India. The government has also announced that all the patients suffering from coronavirus will be treated free of cost in the hospitals and medical colleges across the Uttar Pradesh.

To prevent transmission of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, the United Nations Children's Fund or UNICEF; the World Health Organisation, or WHO; and the International Federation of Red Cross, or IFRC had issued a joint advisory. The World Health Organisation (WHO) called the spread of Coronavirus “pandemic”.

As per the media reports the coronavirus has infected more than 1,20,000 people in 114 countries, killing about 4,300 of them till now.
 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptoms:


People may experience:
- runny nose
- sore throat
- dry cough
- fever
- difficulty in breathing (severe cases)

In case of having any of the above symptoms for more than 5 days, seek medical attention and follow the directions of your local health authority.
 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Preventions:


You can reduce your risk of infection if you:
Wash your hands frequently- Clean hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
If you have a cold and cough- Cover nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or flexed elbow
Maintain social distancing- Avoid close contact (1 metre or 3 feet) with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth-  Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth.