Zaykum Zayna: COVID-19 Public Service Announcement

Updated: April 2020

This video by Libyan disabled people's organization Zaykum Zayna uses Libyan Arabic Sign Language with English subtitles to describe COVID-19, its origin, how it spreads, how people can protect themselves, COVID-19 symptoms and the people at highest risk of contracting the disease. 

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems helped to found Zaykum Zayna in 2012, and Zaykum Zayna participated in the development of the Libyan Electoral Sign Language Lexicon in 2016. 

 

An English transcript is available below. 

 

[Transcript begins]

 

Because your health matters to us, here is important info about coronavirus (COVID-19).

 

What is the novel coronavirus? It is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The term novel is used because it is new. Its first appearance was in Wuhan City in China in the end of December 2019.

 

How does coronavirus (COVID-19) spread? Through direct contact with those infected with the virus, small liquid drops from the nose or mouth which are spread by coughs or exhales, touching objects or surfaces touched by those infected, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. 

 

How can you protect yourself? Avoid getting close to people with respiratory illness symptoms, regulary and thoroughly wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or rub well with alcohol, and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible. Avoid traveling if you feel any symptoms of illness. Avoid smoking hookah in public places. 

 

What are the symptoms of coronavirus? High fever, throat infection, pneumonia and difficulty breathing, and soreness and congestion in the nose and throat.

 

Who are most at risk of being infected? Older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. 

 

Thank you. 

 

[Transcript ends]