COVID-19 has been sweeping the world. The virus has caused over 3.5 million infections and exists in at least 187 countries.
Every person must do his or her part to protect themselves during this unprecedented time. When you take the proper precautions, you minimize your risk of contracting the disease and aid in flattening the curve.
Protecting yourself from COVID-19 isn’t difficult. Here are five easy ways you can keep you and your family virus-free.
The first way to protect you and your family is by recognizing the signs of COVID-19. The symptoms may appear similar to the flu. The earlier you catch the disease, the less it can spread, and the better the recovery process will be.
The CDC has stated people with COVID-19 exhibit a cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. The virus may also cause fever, chills, muscle pain, headaches, sore throat, and a loss of taste or smell. Symptoms appear two to 14 days after being exposed to the virus.
The CDC recommends wearing a protective face mask when in public areas. Covering your mouth with a cloth mask prevents infected people from passing on the virus. Face masks stop droplets carrying the disease from spreading through your nose or mouth.
Before putting on your mask, clean your hands with soap and water. Make sure the mask covers your mouth and nose. Avoid touching the mask while you use it. If you do, clean your hands immediately or use hand sanitizer.
Do not recycle single-use masks. Remove it from behind and avoid touching the front of the mask. Discard used masks into covered trash bins. Clean your hands afterward.
Keep clean to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap. You should clean your hands after being in public areas, before touching your face, and prior to eating. If you have children, make sure they are following proper hand-washing procedures.
If you cannot wash your hands, carry hand sanitizer with you. Make sure the sanitizer contains 60% alcohol.
Keeping the home clean can also lower your risk of contracting COVID-19. Wipe down groceries when you return from the store. Disinfect frequently touched household objects and surfaces, like doorknobs and light switches. Wipe down your children’s toys often.
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from COVID-19 is by avoiding close contact with others.
First, try to stay home as much as possible. Only leave your house if you are an essential worker or to pick up supplies. When you run errands, do it alone. Look into online grocery delivery systems and curbside pickup services to minimize your need to shop.
While in public areas, stay six feet apart from others. Before using a shopping cart or basket, disinfect it with sanitizer or wipes. When making payments, try to use touchless pay systems. If you handle cash, wash your hands immediately afterward.
If you notice COVID-19 symptoms, isolate yourself as soon as possible. Do not run errands or go into public areas. Do not go to the hospital.
Instead, call your doctor and describe what you are feeling. Minimize your contact with your family and household members as much as you can.
Protecting yourself from COVID-19 requires proper education, protection, and cleanliness. Be aware of your surroundings, minimize contact with others, and isolate yourself if you feel ill. By following these tips, you can reduce you and your family’s risk of exposure and keep yourselves healthy.
If you have COVID-19 questions, our educated team can help. Contact us to learn more about the disease and speak to one of our trained professionals.
