COVID19 also known as coronavirus disease is a respiratory illness that is very contagious. Though it first originated in Asian, it has now spread drastically across the globe. Those with underlying conditions are at much higher risks than others. Despite the many efforts that governments have tried to put in place to ensure safety for their citizens, the disease has proved unrelenting and it keeps spreading. Today almost every country across the world is affected and can expect an imminent outbreak.
COVID-19 is affecting communities throughout the world, and organizations such as the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that the best way to stop the spread is taking individual and family care. And with the death tolls rising, it is our responsibility to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. The question therefore is what to do to care for your family. Let’s take a look at some of the highly recommended steps you can take to keep your family safe
- Physical distancing
We are all well aware that the disease spreads from person to person. It is therefore wise to avoid physical contact, especially with people who exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough, sneezing, headache or runny nose. These symptoms that are more like having a cold or flu may seem mild but the disease is more serious than common cold. It also causes difficulty in breathing, which is dangerous for people with underlying conditions. Some people die from the disease because they have weak immune systems; others have their immune systems fight too hard to the point of hurting them. you can use a baby monitor to keep an eye on them even while apart.
- Food Safety Concerns
Although no solid proof that COVID19 can be transmitted through our food and water systems, sharing food is still discouraged. It is of great significance to take care of our food the way we care for our hands. Food safety and personal hygiene is mandatory in the fight against the COVID19. Before having or preparing your food, you must wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds with soap and water. It’s also important to maintain food hygiene; food that is taken raw must be properly cleaned. Promptly refrigerating raw food and cooked food separately is good. You should also heat food to the recommended temperature.
- Cleaning hands
Personal hygiene is important, especially handswashing regularly with soap and water to prevent the spread of COVID19. Wash hands before preparing or eating food, wash before and after visiting the bathroom, wash hands after you have been in public, after touching face, and after sneezing or coughing. Always advise family to wash hands for at least 20 seconds, and in a situation where water and soap is not available, use an alcohol based sanitizer. Teach even your children to understand the importance of making this a habit.
- Household Cleaning
Other practices, such as cleaning and disinfecting commonly used surfaces around the house are also recommended in reducing the spread of COVID19. According to early reports from China, the novel coronavirus is also spread through the household. Because it is impossible to entirely stay away from family in the house, it is helpful to keep the household disinfected at all times.
- Isolate when sick
When you get sick, isolate yourself from the rest of the family. This is a measure to protect your loved ones because you can never know whether its common cold or the COVID19. It is advisable to use things like non-contact baby thermometers to monitor the temperature of your children so that you can detect any changes early. Take precautions always and call a healthcare provider before going to the hospital.
