COVID-19 declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization and the virus is spreading vaguely across many countries. This has created panic and terror among people. Most of the institutes and universities have declared break for two weeks and some cases of students being requested to vacate hostels are being heard. With all the information and the number flashes on our screens about the infected people and the mortality rate, it becomes even scarier. We are aware of our current condition but just because of a few myths it has become more intense. Its good to stay updated with the latest updates but just to create unnecessary buffs is also not good.
Today we would be seeing some of the basic precautionary measures related to COVID-19 and will also see what myths are related to it.
Social Distancing – We know how quickly this pandemic is spreading, social distancing has become the primary focus. The government and people together are taking measures in order to create awareness for social distancing. Governments have closed places where people gather in number. Schools, colleges and offices are asked to remain closed for some time. Why is this step taken? This COVID-19 spreads through the droplets of liquid released during sneezing and coughing from one person to another. Hence, all are requested to avoid social gatherings.
Respiratory Hygiene – Be sure to practice good respiratory hygiene by you and those around you. Make a habit to cover nose and mouth while coughing and sneezing. Use a tissue and dispose of them right after the use. This practice protects you and people from getting affected by the virus.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouths – Our hands are the primary ones which come in contact with germs and viruses. Hence, should not touch eyes, nose, and mouths by which virus can enter your body.
Wash Hands frequently – Maintain cleanliness and wash hands or sanitize them through alcohol-based hand rubs. This kills viruses present on your hands. It is advisable to wash hands for 20 sec.
Fever and cough persist, consult medical health – If you feel any of the symptoms like fever, running nose, cough and difficulty in breathing inform your medical help about it and follow the instruction given by them. Only National and local authorities will have the latest updates. Kindly follow their guidelines only. Contact them and they will help you to visit the right health care center.
Isolation – Stay at home if you are unwell with normal fever and cold. If you suffer from any of the COVID-19 symptoms kindly contact the local authorities for Coronavirus treatment, by calling them in advance. This would help them to make the primary arrangements and would guide you with the instructions to be followed. If you have travel history in the past few days or had any contact with travelers let them know about it. Take complete rest and stay isolated until you are given medical clearance by them.
Wear a facemask – You only need to wear a mask if you are sick. As wearing mask will prevent you from spreading the virus. Do not need to wear it if you are not sick. People around are unnecessary wearing masks and troughing them which is also causing pollution.
Some of the myths related to it are:
- There are various myths related to it like hot climatic conditions spread the virus, however, it has been stated that this virus spreads in all climatic conditions.
- The thermal detectors are used to detect coronavirus affected people. A big no, these detectors are used to measure if a person has developed a fever.
- Vaccines for pneumonia will help to protect against the virus. No, such vaccines won’t help you from getting the COVID-19 virus. Yet researches are going on to find a vaccine for treating this virus.
- People of older age category are more susceptible to coronavirus. The virus can affect all age category people. However, old age people and those who are already suffering from certain health issues can become vulnerably ill. Precautionary measures should be taken by all.
Do not panic in this situation. Be calm and follow the guides which are only given by government authorities nationally and internationally. Follow the basic hygiene and take care of yourself as well as the people around you. Avoid any travels or visiting public places, especially if you are already ill. Be responsible citizens and do your bit we would surely recover from the current situation.
