Dos and Don’ts when protecting yourself against corona virus

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.

Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others. Take care of your health and protect others also. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.

DOs

DO wash Your Hands Frequently for at least 20 seconds, several times a day. Use soap and water or a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol which will effectively kill the virus.

Wash your hands after going to the bathroom, before and after eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

DO learn the symptoms, which are similar to other respiratory diseases

Fever, Cough, Shortness of breath

DO seek help early if you have a fever, cough, and a hard time breathing.

DO consider taking extra precautions and staying out of public places if you have a condition, as you have a higher risk of developing the disease.

DO reconsider travel to affected countries.

DO avoid contact with those who are sick

DO Prepare by making sure you have supplies at home in case someone gets sick and needs to be quarantined. This would include prescription medications for anyone in the family, other health supplies such as over-the-counter pain relievers, and disinfectants to clean household surfaces. Studies suggest that corona viruses can live on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days. Clean them regularly with a disinfectant to kill the virus.

DON’Ts

DON’T touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you have somehow come into contact with the virus, touching your face can help it enter your body.

DON’T wear a mask unless you’re sick. Masks help protect others from catching the virus, but wearing one when you’re healthy won’t do much.

DON'T stockpile face masks. Demand has been so high worldwide that shortages have begun. Leave the masks for people who really need them, like the sick or health care professionals.

DON’T travel if you have a fever. If you get sick on flight, tell crew immediately. When you get home, contact a health professional.

DON’T hang out with your family or pets if you suspect you have the virus. In order to protect them, eat and sleep separately from them, try to stay in one room, and use a separate bathroom if possible.