We know that Kolkata is still safe from the epidemic and that not a single case of Coronavirus has been reported in the city yet. But, prevention is better than cure which is why we’d definitely suggest that you listen to the authorities as they try to tackle the virus, and keep yourself safe in these trying times.
The state government has already shut down all schools, colleges and universities till April 15, 2020. But, board exams will be held as per schedule. The Indian Museum, Birla Industrial & Technological Museum (BITM), Science City and Victoria Memorial will also remain closed till the end of the month. Sports events in the city have also been cancelled. The chief minister has also advised auditoriums and cinema halls to close doors.
To protect yourself, stay indoors as much as you can and follow the World Health Organisation's guidelines on personal hygiene and social distancing. Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water to kill the viruses. Try and maintain a distance of at least three feet while meeting people or anyone who’s coughing and sneezing. If you see someone cough or sneeze, advise them to cover their nose and mouth to avoid others from breathing it in. Also, do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth and face with contaminated hands to avoid transferring the virus. Dispose off the tissue immediately after a sneeze or cough. Stay at home if you’re unwell and, most importantly, do not panic. Speak to a doctor and follow the protocol of the local authorities.
The health ministry has also been updating information on their website. Most government hospitals (SSKM, Howrah District Hospital, RG Kar Medical College and Hospital and Calcutta Medical College and Hospital) in the city are equipped to handle Covid19 cases with Beleghata ID Hospital being the referral one for the virus. All the samples are being tested at the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) - the state’s only authorised centre for testing. The government has also released 24x7 helpline numbers (state numbers are 1800-313-444-222 and 033-2341 2600 while +91-11-23978046 is the Union health ministry’s number) for queries. You can also drop a mail on ncov2019@gmail.com for information.
Check the list of centres that are testing for the virus here.