COVID-19 Guidelines: You Are Safe As Long As People around You Are Safe

Coronavirus or novel coronavirus as it’s scientifically called, COVID-19 has shaken the world. When we stepped into 2020, we were filled with hope and excitement, but just three months into it and the world is in chaos- a tiny invisible virus has brought the world to a standstill.

Before we go on and on about coronavirus, we want to start by saying that don’t panic. We can fight it together by taking precautions and changing our behaviour. Amidst all the terrifying reports of this deadly virus, there is news for hope too. Hundreds of patients have recovered from COVID-19, and according to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of WHO, the COVID-19 pandemic is the first-ever, pandemic that can actually be controlled.

Furthermore, the death rate is higher in adults above the age of 60, individuals with pre-existing conditions and people with low immunity. However, this doesn’t give young, healthy people the liberty to behave irresponsibly. Because you might contract COVID-19, recover too, but you might pass it to others for whom it might prove fatal. Or you might just be a carrier of coronavirus –meaning you won’t get infected, but you will pass it on to someone or something which has the potential to cause the infection. It’s not just our social responsibility anymore, it's the moral responsibility of every human.

The main cause for the spread of COVID-19 is continued socializing even after cases began appearing. Allow us to elaborate:

A person infected by coronavirus doesn’t show symptoms for 5-14 days after he is infected. The incubation period of COVID-19 is 2-14 days. In this window period, the infected person isn’t aware of his/her condition and goes on living life normally, in the process of infecting others. Now, these infected individuals are clueless about what’s happened to them, and they inadvertently spread the virus to more people until the symptoms start to appear.

In countries which are worst affected by COVID-19 such as China, Iran and Italy, the graph of the number of COVID-19 cases has always been exponential. So to combat it, social distancing is pivotal.

Avoid large social gatherings, parties, dining outside, mass celebrations or planned vacations. Go out when it’s absolutely necessary. Everything can wait; the coming two-three weeks are crucial. Buy grocery and other necessities needed for 15 days or so but don’t stockpile. It will create more chaos and panic among people. In times like this, it’s important to be kind. Before you hoard up on supplies, such as hand sanitisers, soaps or toilet papers, think about your fellow human beings; you are safe as long as the people around you are safe.

Government preventive measures can work only when we proactively corporate with the government. We can fight it together; we can beat COVID-19 and control the spread. Yes! It’s going to be tough, it's a lockdown we weren’t prepared for. But it has to be done.

During the time of self-quarantine, don’t forget to:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
• Practice respiratory hygiene
• Disinfect surfaces and gadgets
• If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
• Stay informed and follow the advice given by your healthcare provider

While these external factors are vital to prevent the spread, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important. If you are in a lockdown or self-quarantine, it’s a perfect time to start cooking! Instead of Netflix and chilling, try getting back to the kitchen and bring out the MasterChef in you. Eat healthy and nutritious food. Wash the veggies and meat thoroughly, don’t eat it raw. Don’t binge on junk food and stay hydrated —preferably, drink warm water. Exercise or practice Yoga. You can do it at your home or on your porch or terrace. Focus on boosting your immunity. Because until a cure or vaccination for COVID-19 is found, your immunity is the only thing that can keep you safe.

Below are a few foods which are the powerhouses of immunity.

• Citrus fruits: lemons, oranges, grapefruit
• Indian gooseberry
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Turmeric
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Watermelon
• Green Tea
• Pomegranate

Remember folks, in these desperate times, the true testament of human nature is proven. Instead of treating everyone out there as a possible suspect, let’s try to take care of each other. Yes, social distancing is in place, but kindness and compassion can still be shown.

In conclusion, we want to advise our younger lot to be more careful. You might be blessed with vitality and good health, but your grandparents and parents may not be. With age, the immune system weakens, and your parents or elders at home might not be able to recover if they get infected with COVID-19.  Therefore, take precautions, because if you don’t, you might be the one infecting your parents or grandparents. Take care of yourself and stay at home to take care of your parents. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

We sincerely hope, that within a month or two we can contain COVID-19 and get back to normal life. We know we will!!

Take care people. Stay safe!