COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a global pandemic that has affected over 7.15 million people worldwide. The count is rising day by day, as there’s no specific cure or vaccination for the deadly disease.
There’s no denying the fact that coronavirus pandemic has completely changed the way we used to live. Now we can’t travel. We can’t meet our loved ones. We can’t even roam around freely on streets. Every time we step out of the house, we fear of getting infected in some way or the other.
The pandemic has come and is here to stay for sometime. Now it’s up to us to survive this pandemic. Understanding this, if we pay attention to a few important things, we can save ourselves from becoming a victim of COVID-19.
This article lists 7 do’s to stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Let’s have a look.
#1: Wash your hands regularly
Every time you touch a potentially-infected object, wash your hands properly, scrubbing all the areas, including fingers, thumbs, and palms. This should take at-least 20 seconds. You can also clean them using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The recommended percentage of alcohol content in the sanitizer is 70% .
Did You know?
Soap is more effective in killing germs and bacteria than sanitizers. This is because people generally use less than the recommended amount of sanitizer or wipe it quickly before it dries.
#2: Avoid close contact with others
According to WHO, COVID-19 symptoms appear after 5-6 days of getting infected; and it may take as long as 14 days! Maintain a physical distance of at least 1 meter to avoid coming in contact with a person who may be infected but yet not exhibiting any symptoms.
#3: Use face mask and gloves
Coronavirus is a respiratory virus that enters into a person’s body through eyes, nose, or mouth. Wear a face mask and gloves while stepping out of the house. Choose a mask that covers your nose and mouth properly. This will reduce your chances of getting infected. With gloves on, you’ll be less likely to touch your face (possibly after touching a contaminated surface). Dispose off the gloves immediately after returning back home. Wash or disinfect the face mask after every use.
#4: Disinfect everything you buy
Make sure to disinfect or decontaminate everything you buy before bringing it inside your home. This includes daily essentials, grocery, food, clothing, etc.
Remove all disposable/ unnecessary packaging and put it in a bin outside your house. Non-perishable food and other items that need not be used or refrigerated immediately should be left untouched for at least 72 hours to allow the virus to die. Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly under plain running water for at least 20 seconds. Waterproof containers such as cans, milk bags, etc., and everything else that can be soaked in soapy water should be washed using soap and water.
Opt for online deliveries (if available) to avoid unnecessary contacts and touching unnecessary surfaces. Wash your hands properly after cleaning or disinfecting all the items. If possible, take a bath. Disinfect your purse and your mobile phone as well.
#5: Disinfect commonly used surfaces
Regularly disinfect door handles, table tops, and all other commonly used surfaces in your house. After shopping, disinfect the latch of the main gate and all the areas where you put things before decontaminating.
#6: Improve your immunity
A good immune system provides the strength to fight against diseases. Work on your immunity by consuming healthy food, staying active, maintaining good hygiene practices, and taking optimum sleep.
#7: Don’t panic
Last but not the least – do not panic. Stay away from all the negativity. Indulge in some activity and keep yourself motivated. Remember, this too shall pass.
Final Take
Even though coronavirus pandemic has shaken the entire world, we can still beat this deadly virus by taking required steps. It’s up to us to keep ourselves healthy and safe. It’s up to us to stop the spread of COVID-19. Together, we can make it.
