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ALEXANDRA MEDICAL CENTER (AMC)
COVID-19 GUIDLINES
AMC remains committed to providing our clients with premium healthcare in a safe and conducive environment in the face of this Global Pandemic.
In line with the Ministry of Health Guidelines, we have put in place various measures and adjustments to our working schedules in order to continue to offer a reliable service with patient safety as a priority.
On arrival at the AMC premises, you will be screened and asked to wash your hands before you can access the clinic. In case you are deemed high risk for COVID-19, you will be referred to a designated Government facility for isolation and testing. Currently, no other facility is accredited by the Ministry of Health to test for COVID-19, except Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI).
We shall also require that you wear a mask at all times, and in case you do not have one on arrival, you will be able to procure it from the clinic.
We encourage you to maintain social distancing during your visit at the clinic.
AMC will continue to offer General Medical and Specialist Care, Antenatal, Immunisation, Ultrasound, Laboratory, Dental and Pharmacy services to our clients. We can also deliver your required medication (on prescription) to your home.
We are also cognizant of the Government Directives that have restricted a number of services like public transport. In case you have an emergency and need to see a doctor, feel free to contact KCCA emergency response team – 0800 990 000 and 0204 660 816. This service is free.
Kindly note that the Clinic will be open from Monday to Saturday 08:00 – 20:00 and Sunday 09:00 – 17:00
#BeSafe #WashYourHands #KeepASocialDistance #StayAtHome
CORONA VIRUS & PREGNANCY
Information for Pregnant Women and Their Families
What is Corona virus?
Novel coronavirus (SARS-COV-2) is a new strain of the coronavirus causing COVID-19 disease. This was first identified in Wuhan City of China. Other human coronavirus infections which usually cause mild to moderate upper respiratory tract illnesses like the common cold have existed before.
How is the virus spread?
The virus is transmitted through droplets, secretions, faeces and contaminated surfaces. The virus is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be passed on if you touch a surface which has been contaminated. The most effective way of
protecting yourself against catching this virus is by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, not touching your eyes, nose and mouth, avoiding crowded places and keeping a social distance. Avoiding movement by staying at home is also very effective.
Am I more likely to get the virus because I am pregnant?
While there is still much to learn about this new virus, there is currently no evidence to suggest that pregnant women are at higher risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 virus than the general population.
However, generally, pregnant women are more susceptible to
infections than women who are not pregnant. Pregnancy itself alters the body’s immune system and response to viral infections, which may
occasionally cause more severe symptoms.
If you do contract the disease, it is more likely that you will only experience mild to moderate flu like symptoms. These include: sore throat, body pains, dry cough and a mild fever. However, if you suffer
from an underlying condition, are older, or you have a weaker immune
system, you may experience more severe symptoms, such as pneumonia.
What about my baby?
For pregnant women who are infected with corona virus, there has been NO increased risk of miscarriage or having a baby with abnormalities. Emerging evidence is that vertical transmission is probable, however this was only a case report.
There is more evidence showing no transmission of the virus to unborn baby. While there may be a
higher risk of your baby being born prematurely, the research on this is not yet conclusive.
Can I breastfeed?
Yes, you can breastfeed. There is currently no evidence that the virus can be passed on through
breast milk. It is reassuring that in six Chinese cases, breast milk tested negative for COVID-19, however, given the small number of cases, this evidence should be interpreted with caution.
The main risk of breastfeeding is the close contact between the infant and the mother, who is likely to share infectious droplets.
In light of the current evidence, we advise that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks of transmission of the virus through breastmilk. The risks and benefits of breastfeeding, including the risk of holding the baby in close proximity, should they be infected, should be discussed with the parents. This recommendation (as given by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) may change as knowledge evolves.
The following precautions should be taken to limit viral spread to the baby:
- Wash hands before touching the baby,
breast pump or bottles. - Avoid coughing or sneezing on the baby
while feeding. - Consider wearing a face mask, if available,
while feeding or caring for the baby. - Where a breast pump is used, follow
recommendations for pump cleaning after each use. - Consider asking someone who is well to
bottle feed the baby.
For babies who are bottle fed with formula or expressed milk,
strict adherence to sterilization guidelines is recommended.
How can I protect myself against becoming infected with corona virus?
Regular and thorough handwashing is the cheapest and most effective way of preventing infection. Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer where there is no soap and water.
Try to ensure that there is always 2 meters of physical distance between you and the next person to avoid breathing in any respiratory droplets. Try to avoid closed or crowded spaces where there is limited airflow.
Drinking enough fluids, eating a healthy diet including lots of fruits, getting enough rest will help your immunity fight the infection.
Should I attend my antenatal and postnatal appointments?
Antenatal and postnatal visits are important for you and your baby. If you have no symptoms and have had no known contact with an infected person, then you should attend your antenatal or postnatal appointments as usual. If you think you may have become infected with the virus or have symptoms, then you should postpone your visits until after your period of isolation.
What should I do if I think I have been exposed to the virus or may have it?
If you have any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, please call the Ministry of Health hotlines on 919 or 0800 100 066 for further instructions.
They will provide advice on whether you should be tested or whether you should be evaluated. You should also self-isolate for at least fourteen (14) days.
Can I still go to work?
Since coronavirus is extremely contagious, it is advisable to work from home if possible. If your job or other factors prevent you from working from home, you should discuss with your employer ways in which exposure to the virus can be limited.
Can I travel?
No. Currently, the country is in total lock down, with no travel outside the country permitted. Please stay safe home. Remember the virus does not move, people move the virus.
The main risk of breastfeeding is the close contact between the infant and the mother, who is likely to share infectious droplets.
In light of the current evidence, we advise that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks of transmission of the virus through breastmilk. The risks and benefits of breastfeeding, including the risk of holding the baby in close proximity, should they be infected, should be discussed with the parents. This recommendation (as given by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) may change as knowledge evolves.
