Stay safe and stay home; Coronavirus safety measures and preparation tips

The novel Coronavirus or COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness that took off from its roots in China and has spread across the globe causing panic and death. The WHO has officially declared the disease a pandemic. As you might have heard, many safety measures and precaution techniques are doing the rounds with updates and alerts 24x7 in the world media and the local media alike. The pandemic has captured the world’s attention like no other. Currently the world’s most severe public health crisis, the pandemic has put the social media on edge as well with news updates and precautions.

As the world is slowly, but eventually standing up to face the deadly infection there have been incidents of fake news getting posted and shared widely via WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media platforms. This is causing public panic and unnecessary problems. It is always recommended to follow safety measures and instructions from reliable sources during any public health crisis, but regarding Corona, the most reliable source is the World Health Organisation.

Though following and understanding all the safety measures and protocols can be overwhelming in a single read, it is advisable to go through it line by line. Many people might not also understand all the technical terms listed, so we at MySmartBazaar have taken up the initiative to make the public aware and smart about such safety measures, preparation and precaution tips to stay safe and break the chains, so that things can return to normalcy as soon as possible. 

Please note; All the safety measures and preparation tips are recommended from the World Health Organisation website, please feel free to click on the link and read more about it. 

Key protective measures against COVID-19

First understand, how does it spread?

?It is a respiratory illness that is caused by the compromised immune system.

?As currently no vaccine is available to prevent COVID-19, the best way to stay safe from infection is to avoid being exposed to it. So, stay away from crowded places, social gatherings and those who are ill.

?As reports suggest COVID-19 can only spread from person-to-person. More investigation is being done on other fronts. 

?This can happen between people who are in close proximity - about 6 feet. 

?Respiratory droplets through coughing or sneezing produced by an affected person can infect a healthy person who may or may not show symptoms immediately.

?Droplets can therefore land in the mouths, noses or hands of people who are within close proximity.

?Usually it takes 2 to 14 days to show signs of COVID-19 and thus it is advisable to stay away from large crowds or come in contact with people. 

Second, how to protect yourselves and others from COVID-19

?Washing your hands frequently, thoroughly for twenty seconds

It is important to regularly and thoroughly wash and clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and/or with recommended soap and water as it kills the viruses that may be on your hands.

?Keep and maintain social distancing

All countries, all over the world those who are affected by coronavirus are using social distancing as one of the primary methods to “break the chain” of COVID -19.
It is advisable to maintain a 6 feet distance between yourself and anyone who might be affected by coughing or sneezing.

Social distancing ensures you aren’t too close to a person affected and that you don’t breathe any of the affected droplets

?Likewise, you can wait it out and stay home if you feel unwell for 14 days. 14 is the no.of days for the COVID-19 symptoms to emerge.

Self-isolation also is crucial as recommended by the World Health Organisation that public health systems should not be burdened by excess patients. If that happens, it will break down the public health facilities and people who really need assistance will miss out on getting essential treatment. Also, this helps to prevent the spread and protect you and others from getting infected as it helps things return to normalcy quicker. 

Stay Informed and aware
There is a lot of misinformation doing the rounds in social media regarding COVID -19, that has to stop. It is necessary to stay informed and monitor the progress of COVID -19 through authentic websites likethe World Health Organisation. Please follow advice given by the ministry of health and WHO.