The Coronavirus and How to Protect Yourself?

The Coronavirus and How to Protect Yourself?

29th March 2020 – Today, our world is in complete chaos. After the terrible plague of 1918, the world finds itself suffering from an even greater crisis. As of present times, the World Health Organization (WHO)  has declared the conditions caused by the Coronavirus to be a global pandemic.

Well, you must have heard as well as witnessed the chaotic situations due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus. But, do you know about its origin, nature, and impact? I didn’t too! So, I researched and dug out all the information from reliable sources to put together this jigsaw puzzle. Well, you certainly don’t need to go through all of that trouble. Give the article a read to make yourself more aware and protected against the fatal Coronavirus.

Global Statistical Data of COVID-19 as on 29th March 2020
Male chemist hand in blue protective gloves hold test tube closeup background

Section I – Defining Coronavirus

Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is an infectious disease. The virus that spreads this virus is a microscopic being with pointed structures that seemingly form a crown. Thus, its name corona-virus. It can not only infect humans but animals as well.

Generally, there are several different types of coronaviruses. Some cause mild respiratory diseases (in throats, lungs, or nose), and some cause colds. A rare few can also cause severe diseases like SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).

The following are some general symptoms of the Coronavirus:

  • Fever
  • Dry cough
  • Runny nose
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Tiredness
  • Body Aches and Pains
  • Shortness of breath
  • Diarrhea

Since these symptoms are quite very similar to those of regular flu, here’s a quick way to check if it’s ordinary flu or COVID-19; Hold your breath for ten seconds. Being able to do so means you’re safe.

Although the disease is highly contagious, it only proves to be fatal for people with the weaker immune system. For example, older people that are currently battling other medical problems like high blood pressure and diabetes are at high risk.

Hygiene concept. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds

Section II – Protecting Yourself

As mentioned earlier, the Covid-19 has no cure and no treatment. Doctors cannot cure this fatal virus once you get infected. But, if you take preventative measures and help your immune system become healthy, then you can survive this pandemic too. 

Kid washing hands at home under water tap. Cute child girl in flour after cooking in cozy home kitchen. Infection prevention. Avoid spreading viruses and germs.

1. Wash your hands

The most effective way is to wash your hands frequently. Whenever you touch a doorknob or anything, wash your hands. Use liquid hand soap or bar soap. However, do remember to rub your hands with soap for at least 20-seconds before rinsing. It is much better if a sanitizer is available at your home.

2. Don’t touch your face

The Coronavirus enters your body through nose, eyes, and mouth. Hence, you must avoid touching your face. Do not forget that your hands are the primary carrier of any germ as they come in contact with various objects. If an infected hand touches your eyes, nose, or mouth, then you may get sick.

3. Clean your surroundings 

The Coronavirus can survive on different surfaces for a different period. So, an effective way to keep yourself protected is to clean your surroundings. Vacuum, broom, and mop the house floor daily. Spray a disinfectant on the surfaces that are under heavy-traffic. Keep your bathrooms clean and any other area at home.

Metal Copper Stainless Steel Cardboard Plastic
5-days 4-hours  72-hours 24-hours  72-hours
Aluminum Wood Air Ceramics Glass
8-hours 4-days 3-hours 5-days 4-days

*The statistics tell the survival of Coronavirus on different surfaces.

A group of doctors wearing face masks

4. Wear the masks

Currently, a majority of governing authorities have ordered complete lockdowns. And, although people are not going out unnecessarily, the need to go out may arise sooner or later.

 You may have to get some essential food or medicinal supplies. You may be a doctor, paramedic, or even a shopkeeper who has to go out to help others. In any case, if you are going out in an infected world, you should wear a mask. There are three types of mask to use:

1.    N95 mask (Best)

2.    Surgical mask (Good)

3.    Homemade mask (Least effective. You can make it out of cloth, tissues, or anything at hand. Use a new one every time.)

fruits & vegetables with high vitamin c – spinach, strawberry, kiwi, orange, cauliflower

5. Boost your immune system

Coronavirus has no cure, except for your body’s defense called the immune system. To protect yourself, you should stay healthy. Eat fruits and vegetables to increase the intake of essential vitamins, such as vitamin-C.

Read more: 5-Most Nutritious Foods in the World

Social distancing, keep distance in public society people to protect COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak spreading concept.

6. Social-distancing / Quarantine

Yes, I know that staying away from people you love can be difficult. But, your friends, family, and relatives may get in danger without maintaining a distance, especially from infected people. Please stay at least 3-meters away from sick people. Do not shake hands or hug!

Try quarantine or isolation so that people you love remain safe. And, if you experience the Covid-19 symptoms, then go to a hospital immediately. Do not stay home, and consider recovering yourself. If you do so, then you will risk your life as well as others. Well, by following these steps, you can surely stay protected from this global pandemic.

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public

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