Mongolia: Authorities reporting increased COVID-19 activity in December 2020 /update 3

Event

Mongolian health authorities have identified 248 additional confirmed cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) since the first reported cases of local COVID-19 transmission in Ulaanbaatar. This brings the total to 888 confirmed cases March 10-Dec. 8. At least 180 cases are local transmission, with disease activity reported in Arkhangai, Darkhan-Uul, Dornogovi, Govisumber, Orkhon, Selenge, and Ulaanbaatar. This information represents the most recent data available as of Dec. 8.

Context

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Human-to-human transmission does occur, primarily through respiratory droplets from infected individuals or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms typically include fever, fatigue, and dry cough; less common symptoms include headache, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell, reddening of the eyes, skin rash, or discoloration of the fingers or toes. Symptoms may worsen to difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and organ failure - especially in those with underlying, chronic medical conditions. Some infected individuals display no symptoms.

Older individuals and people of any age with chronic medical conditions or compromised immunity should consider postponing nonessential travel, including domestic travel, and take special precautions to avoid becoming ill, especially where sustained community transmission of COVID-19 is ongoing. All individuals should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning from travel.

Advice

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

WHO coronavirus knowledge base
US CDC: Guidance for Businesses and Employers
US CDC: Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities
Mental Health Considerations during COVID-19 Outbreak
US CDC: Manage Anxiety and Stress
US CDC Global COVID-19 Travel Health Notice
WHO: Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19
WHO advice for international travel