Cold and flu season has hit us hard this year with the introduction of COVID-19 or the Coronavirus. While this illness has caused global panic, there are steps we can take here at home to reduce our risk of coming down with Coronavirus. While they may not be foolproof, they go a long way towards prevention of this serious virus and other viral and bacterial infections you may come into contact with.
Originating in Wuhan, China, it is believed the Coronavirus initially came from an animal called a pangolin. These animals are considered a delicacy in China, but like many wild animals, can carry diseases like the COVID-19 virus. Since it’s first introduction to humans, this virus has spread across the globe, affecting both humans and animals, and causing illness and in some cases even death in humans.
Naturally, people are afraid of Coronavirus, and some are taking drastic measures in the hopes of avoiding contracting it. Unfortunately, some methods simply won’t work while others are vital to reducing the spread. Here’s what you need to know about protecting yourself and your family from COVID-19.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands is still the best defense against the Coronavirus. Coronavirus is most likely to affect be contracted via the hands because our hands encounter more germs than any other part of our bodies. They also touch our faces, eyes and mouths without being aware they are covered in germs. While we already know to wash our hands after certain activities, remember to wash them extra good and more frequently, especially during cold and flu season
Sanitize as a Supplement
There is nothing inherently wrong with using hand sanitizer – but do so in addition to washing your hands, not instead. Recent studies have shown that sanitizer does not kill all the germs on your hands and doesn’t work as well as good, old fashioned hand washing. That being said, it works in a pinch and can’t hurt after washing your hands
Skip the Surgical Masks or Use Them Smartly
You may see people out and about in surgical masks, but experts are warning against this practice for protecting against Coronavirus. That’s because these masks are intended for use by medical professionals. They are truly meant for your medical provider to keep his or her germs in, not for keeping outside germs out. Furthermore, they can be rendered useless if you touch them, or if you pull them up and down during use. As they are not airtight to the skin, they can still allow germs in, and they do not protect the full face. While there are more effective masks, experts are asking that those are left for medical professionals who must interact with patients who are already affected by Coronavirus.
Yes, the Coronavirus is scary, but it’s important to not panic and to follow the health guidelines to help prevent the spread of this and other illnesses. Remember, if you are sick to stay home from work. If you think you could have Coronavirus, contact your doctor to be tested as soon as possible.