During a dangerous pandemic, such as Covid-19, it is vital that you understand the disease and do your best to protect yourself and others.
Know how it spreads – Because there is currently no vaccine to prevent Covid-19, the best way to prevent illness is to not be exposed to the virus. The virus is spread mainly through person to person interaction (roughly within 6 feet). It is transported through respiratory droplets produced when a person coughs, sneezes, or talks. This droplets can be received by people surrounding through their nose or mouth and finally to their lungs. Studies have shown that even people without symptoms can spread Covid-19.
Wash your hands often – Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you’ve been in public places or if you sneezed or coughed. If soap and water is not available use hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol. Rub all surfaces of your hand with hand sanitizer until it is completely dry. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact – Avoid close contact with those who are sick, even in your home. If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members. Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home. Remember that people can spread the disease without symptoms. Maintain 6 feet distance from others. Do not gather in groups. Stay out of crowded places and mass gatherings. Keeping distance is especially important for those with higher risk of infection.
Cover your mouth and nose when around others – You could spread Covid-19 even if you do not feel sick. Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when going out in public, for example to the grocery store. The face mask is meant to protect other, in the event that you are sick. Don’t use face masks that aren’t meant for healthcare workers. However, face mask is not a substitute for social distancing, continue to maintain 6 feet apart.
Clean and disinfect – Clean and disinfect frequently touches surfaces, daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectantsexternal icon will work.
Monitor your health – Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19, especially if you are running essential errands, or working in a crowded area where social distancing is difficult. Take your temperature if symptoms develop. Follow guidelines from reputable healthcare organizations, such as the CDC.
These are key things to remember in order to help diminish the spread of this deadly disease.
Opinions expressed by AsianBlurb contributors are their own.
Vincent Le is a pre-medical student at Georgia State University with an interest in surgery.
