During a pandemic, it may be challenging to know what to do for the safety of yourself and others. Without proper knowledge, one may forget to do essential things to prevent the spread of deadly viruses, such as the Coronavirus. Today, we will be discussing certain things you can do to take precautionary measures during a pandemic, like the one we are going through right now. Let us take a look at some of the things you can do
to help protect yourself and those that are dear to know.
1. Know precisely how the virus spreads
According to the CDC, there is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 like there is for the flu. Thus, it is crucial to avoid contracting the virus, preventing its spread, and knowing what precautionary measures to take during a pandemic, like the one we are going through with COVID-19.
The primary way COVID-19 spreads is through person-person contact. This can happen when people are in close contact with each other( within 6 feet of each other) and through people who spread it through respiratory droplets such as via sneezes, coughs, and simply by talking. These droplets can spread by landing in the mouths or noses of those who are nearby. It is also possible to inhale it through the lungs. Many studies have shown that COVID-19 also spreads through those who do not show symptoms.
2. Wash hands as often as possible
Ensure that you are washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Washing hands is essential, especially after being in public places, blowing your nose, sneezing, and coughing.
It is also best to wash hands:
● Before touching your face
● After using the restroom
● When handling a mask
● When caring for someone who is sick
● After touching animals or pets
If soap and water are not available, try to use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Rub the sanitizer between your hands until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth with unsanitized or unwashed hands.
3. Avoid getting to close with others
Ensure you do not come into contact with others who may be sick. It is best to maintain a distance of 6 feet between everyone, especially if they are sick.
Always remember that asymptomatic people can also spread the virus. This means you shouldn’t start handshaking simply because the other person looks “fine.”
Wear a mask to protect your nose and mouth when around others.
Wearing a mask doesn’t mean you are caging your face; it means you are helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 even if you do not have it. Children under the age of 2, those with breathing issues, and others who may have difficulty removing their masks should not wear one.
Surgical masks and N95 are in critical demand. This means it is essential not to wear masks intended for health care workers.
Always remember that social distancing is necessary even while wearing a mask.
Remember: social distancing can not be replaced simply by wearing a mask.
4. Always cover sneezes and coughs
Whenever you have a sneeze or cough, ensure you cover it using a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Do not spit, especially during pandemic times.
Immediately throw away used tissues and wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water. Once again, if soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands.
Ensure all surfaces are always clean and disinfected Ensure that frequently touched surfaces, such as keyboards, mouses, and tables, are disinfected daily. Use detergent or soap to clean dirty surfaces before disinfecting them.
5. Always check your health
Keep on eye out for whether you start developing symptoms of COVID-19. Some signs that could begin to happen include a cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
If any of these symptoms do develop, take your temperature immediately.
It is essential to know that your temperature should not be taken within 30 minutes of exercising or after using medications to relieve fever, such as acetaminophen.
Finally, ensure you are following CDC guidelines if any symptoms occur.
In addition, ensure you wear a mask at all times when in public places!
After learning about precautionary measures during a pandemic, we hope you feel more prepared during these times. If you feel like you require help with COVID-19 and any of its symptoms, you have come to the right place! PCP For Life is here to help you during these rough and tragic times. We are your local physician in Houston, Texas, and we want you to have a physician that knows what you need during a pandemic. Call us today at 281-370-7272.
