Meghana HarikumarThe coronavirus outburst is incredibly frightening, as it continues to remake the world as we knew it. As in any crisis, you’re probably thinking: Am I safe? And is my family safe? And how can I keep them safe?
Keeping your family as germ-free as possible is important when the cold-and-flu season hits. After all, when a cold or flu bug bites one member of your clan, it can mean all of you will be down for the count. But even after most cold and flu viruses vacate your home, there are always other germs and allergens to be wary of. Some, like the bacteria that lurk in uncooked meats or the pertussis bacteria, can cause serious illnesses.
As some communities begin to reopen during the global pandemic, public health officials say the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
Major tips to keep yourself safe from viruses are.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
- Stay home as much as possible and avoid non-essential travel.
- Practice social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet about two arm lengths away from others if you must go out in public.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. Follow the CDC and WHO guidelines for the right standards.
As a Chinese proverb says, “misfortune may be a blessing in disguise”. And by following the right steps, the families can turn the epidemic into an opportunity to grow closer and build emotional resilience among all its members.
While you are keeping your family safe from novel coronavirus, make sure you are also keeping their mental health in check. This is an incredibly stressful time. Not only are many being forced to cut off physical contact with their friends, family, and loved ones, a lot of people have lost money in the stock market, lost jobs due to an adaptive economy, or even know someone who is sick or lost their life from the illness.
“Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories about ailments and other stressful news. Connect with family and friends. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with others.
We know, it’s hard to do anything but stress out! But a strong immune system is one of the best defenses against any illness. In addition to keeping your body healthy, some of the easiest ways to boost immunity include eating healthy, getting an ample amount of sleep, proper hydration, and avoiding stress as much as possible, and live your happiest and healthiest life.
Meghana Harikumar
Editor
Ranjani Govind
Somaya Palecanda
