You may have noticed that words such as quarantine, hand washing, social distancing, hygiene, and disinfection are now the new normal in the aftermath of the pandemics of the highly infectious coronavirus disease, hygiene has become a necessity in modern life.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted our lives, highlighting the importance of practicing proper safety measures to protect ourselves and those around us. By following recommended guidelines, we can help curb the spread of the virus and contribute to a safer community.
Coronavirus is spread by coming into contact with an infected person. This can happen at home while driving or while on the go. To prevent getting the coronavirus or spreading it to others, we must cover our mouths and noses with face masks, wash our hands for twenty seconds with soap or hand sanitizers and be more mindful of disinfecting regularly used surfaces.
We must know simple rules to remain safe and stylish in these extraordinary times, where handshakes and embraces are discouraged, and face masks have become a fundamental piece of clothing. Here are some essential coronavirus safety tips to incorporate into your daily routine to stay safe and healthy.
At-Home Safety
To reduce the spread of coronavirus, it is recommended in the first place that you remain at home as much as possible. Request that deliveries be left outside your house if you have the option. Pay and tip electronically if you order products for delivery. If possible, stay at least 6 feet (1.8 m) away from delivery people if you must interact. If you pay with cash, wash your hands after using it.
Out and About Safety
While sheltering in place can help you stay safe during the coronavirus outbreak, chances are you will still have to leave your home at some point to get groceries or medicine, or other essential activities. Take basic steps to protect yourself while you're out and about to reduce your chances of bringing the virus back home.
∎ Six Feet Apart
Keep a safe distance of at least six feet from individuals outside your household, particularly in crowded places or when socializing. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of illness. Remember, physical distancing does not mean social isolation. Stay connected with loved ones through virtual means and online platforms.
∎ Where a Mask
The CDC recommends everyone wear a mask around others and stay six feet (1.8 m) away from others. This is especially important when you go to a grocery store or other area with a crowd. It is safer to make your trips when there are fewer people. Most stores provide stations with disinfectant wipes for your hands, carts, and baskets near the store entrance. Make it a habit to disinfect the cart or basket handles and pay by card to avoid transmission. If you must pay using cash, always sanitize with alcohol after every transaction.
Wearing a mask is crucial in reducing the spread of COVID-19. It helps prevent respiratory droplets from being released into the air when you talk, cough, or sneeze. Make sure your mask covers your nose and mouth, fits snugly against the sides of your face, and is worn properly in public settings, especially when social distancing is challenging.
Practice Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward. If you're in a public space, maintain distance from others when sneezing or coughing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
∎ Wash Your Hands
Practice Good Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of the virus. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this can facilitate the entry of the virus into your body.
Wash your hands regularly for twenty seconds with soap or alcohol, and avoid touching your face. If soap and water aren’t readily available, you can also clean your hands with sanitizing wipes or an alcohol-based gel hand sanitizer. There is a possibility your phone came into contact with the coronavirus. Wash your hands, then turn off your phone and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth and hand sanitizer.
∎ Keep Surfaces Clean
Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in your home and workplace, such as doorknobs, light switches, cell phones, countertops, and everything else in the living room where you may have had guests. Use EPA-approved disinfectants and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.
Wash surfaces that people regularly come into contact with, such as:
Quarantine
Take additional precautions to protect family members at a higher risk for severe illness from the infection, including the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions. If someone in your home does get sick, isolate them in their own room and have them wear a mask to decrease the spread of the virus to other family members.
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