Coronavirus Disease or COVID-19 has been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global pandemic, meaning the disease has spread over several countries and affected a large number of people. The WHO made the announcement to “rung the alarm bell” and urge countries to take urgent and aggressive action against COVID-19.
As an individual, we can help and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here are High Five ways to stay safe against COVID-19:
- Wash Hands, Sanitize, Observe Respiratory Hygiene / Etiquette
The best way to avoid the virus is by washing your hands regularly, WHO says that washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers can kill viruses on your hands. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing hands for at least 20 seconds (also known as the 20-second hand-washing rule) to kill the germs. Also, avoid touching your face with your hands (especially if you have not washed or sanitized your hands) as the virus can enter your body through eyes, nose, or mouth.
WHO also suggests to regularly sanitize surfaces like tables, doorknobs, and even phones as the droplets of COVID-19 can stay for a few hours or up to several days depending on the environmental conditions.
Also, practice respiratory hygiene like covering mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze to stop the droplets from spreading.
- Boost your Immune System
Another way to avoid COVID-19 is by boosting your immune system. Queensland’s Department of Health in Australia stresses the importance of eating healthy food like vegetables and fruits, a balanced diet, drinking water, getting regular physical activities, and having enough sleep to boost your immune system and avoid getting sick in general.
- Practice Social Distancing
According to the Philippines’ Department of Health (DOH), COVID-19 can be transferred via “Droplet Transmission” as the virus from an infected person can travel up to 1 meter or 3 feet after he/she sneezes or coughs so it is important to keep a distance of at least 1 meter or 3 feet from anyone. Avoid crowded places and gatherings for now, as much as you can. If unavoidable, always wash your hands or use alcohol.
- Stop Panic Buying
Please stop panic buying! Buying excessive items won’t help anyone and it may cause further problems especially for those who are really in need. Also, stop hoarding or re-selling important items like alcohol and masks as these are necessities for everyone. Remember, we can only prevent the spread of the virus if all of us are equipped to stop it and if everyone is safe and healthy as well.
- Stop Spreading Fake News
In the prevalence of social media, we can easily and instantly gather information from different sources, but this power entails responsibility. Before you click the share button, always check and ensure that it came from reliable sources. In this critical situation, every report should be authentic and accurate to avoid panic.
If by any chance you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 like fever, tiredness, dry cough, difficulty in breathing, and had contact or visited an area of an infected, don’t hesitate to ask for medical help and get tested.
Stay safe and healthy, everyone!