A Guide: How to stay protected from Coronavirus (COVID-19) at home and outside

As of today, The United States has declared Coronavirus as a National Emergency, while the World Health Organization (WHO) has deemed it a Global Pandemic. The epicenter for the upcoming cases is no longer China, but The United States. As the world prepares itself for lockdowns and restricted international/domestic travels, it is essential we understand what this virus is, symptoms and how you can avoid it. Let us dig deeper.

So, the question is what should I do about Coronavirus?

First thing is, DO NOT PANIC! but at the same time be prepared.

Symptoms of Coronavirus

It is hard to distinguish between the common cold and a novel case of Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms. Common cold symptoms usually last for about 2 weeks and subside eventually or lead to complications like pneumonia. In the case of Coronavirus as per the CDC and WHO, the most common symptoms for COVID-19 include cough, shortness of breath, running nose, fever and sore throat. Please consult your local physician/Test center as soon as possible if you are suspicious about the symptoms.

Things to do at home to stay safe from Coronavirus (COVID-19)

• Indoors: Unless you have breathing issues or suffering from other underlying issues, stay indoors. Even if you are young and/or healthy you can be a potential contagion to the people with weaker immune systems or the elderly. Please be mindful
• Hygiene: Cleanliness and Hygiene is of the utmost importance when it comes to combating and preventing Coronavirus. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap before cooking, touching something, handling water or eating food especially if you just stepped into the house. This could prevent further contamination and spread to other house members.
• Face contact: This is the continuation of the second point. Avoid touching your face: eyes, mouth or nose unless they are thoroughly washed with soap. This way if there is any potential viral infection on your hands, it gets eliminated.
• Clean the surfaces: Make sure you have a very good disinfectant and clean wipe the areas you often touch. Like the kitchen counter where you cook, the nightstand next to your bed or dining table. This potentially kills the coronavirus or any virus that may have made it due to other home members.
• Avoid getting physically close to people you don’t know: With cases of community spread of the novel coronavirus across Europe, US and Asia, it is always a good preventive measure to have a physical minimum safe distance with people around you, especially if they are having flu symptoms. The minimum recommended distance by WHO is 1 meter or 3 feet.
• Stocking groceries: Only accrue the essentials you/your family needs for a week. Avoid overstocking and learn to share.
• Flu-like Symptoms? If you are down with flu-like symptoms, please avoid going to public spaces or going to work. If you have to, try covering your mouth with a facemask to spread it further and contact your nearest hospital soon to have your doubts clarified.

Also Read: 10 Best Home Remedies for Common Cold

Things to do while traveling to stay safe from Coronavirus (COVID-19)

With coronavirus being declared a public health emergency on an international scale traveling to China, Singapore, South Korea and Italy have been restricted and advisories have been issued for individuals planning travel.

• Avoid international travel: As per the official CDC and WHO website, one should avoid traveling to countries where there is an active ongoing widespread of Coronavirus: China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, Japan, the United States of America and Hong Kong.
• Social Distancing: Avoid being close to people showing symptoms of the flu and if possible avoid any kind of physical contact without preventative measures. At least 6 Feet.
• Should I wear a Facemask? Though it is highly recommended to wear it you are having the symptoms before you head to the doctor. Wear a cloth mask at the very least while stepping out. Avoid traveling in public transport (Flights, Buses or Cruises) if possible until you consult the doctor.
• Best Seats on a flight to minimize getting contracted from Flu: The window seats located at the back of the flight are known to be the safest since there will be minimal contact with people (potential carriers) passing by.
• Always cover your nose and/or mouth with a flexed elbow or paper tissue when coughing or sneezing and disposing immediately of the tissue and performing hand hygiene. This way you can avoid spreading any potential virus or bacteria on the items you may touch.
• If you have to wear a facemask while traveling or otherwise, please follow the official WHO guide on the best practices to follow while wearing a mask with coronavirus like symptoms.
• Avoid handshakes and hugs

Also Read: Making your own hand sanitizer at home to kill coronavirus (COVID-19)

Check here for the current numbers across the globe as per John Hopkins University 

Stay safe and be careful! As always we will rise and talk about this day in the future 🙂