Cover mouths when sneezing, viruses can survive for up to 7 days

The Department of Health has urged Filipinos to cover their mouths whenever they cough or sneeze amid the threat of the novel coronavirus.

According to Mariz Umali's report on "24 Oras", viruses may be transmitted to another person long after one's cough or sneeze.

"Ang virus can last from 15 minutes to seven days," DOH epidemiology chief Dr. Ferchito Avelino said.

The DOH also called on the public to cover properly to keep the viruses at bay.

Avelino said coughing or sneezing must be done into the crook of one’s arm, into the sleeves or collar of one’s top. —Julia Mari Ornedo/NB, GMA News