COVID-19 came without a warning and flipped our lives upside down. Even so, we have managed to do our very best to cope and make the most of our situation.
One of the ways is by protecting ourselves and others through the necessary preventive measures for COVID-19. Though we are advised to stay apart, it is now more important than ever to work together to keep each other safe.
The Prime Minister of Malaysia announced the implementation of MCO (Movement Control Order) on 11 January 2021. The tighter measures on certain areas are hoped to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.
In addition to the MCO, let’s carry out the preventive measures for COVID-19 at home and when you need to be outside.
1. Cover your coughs and sneezes
Need to cough or sneeze? It’s always advised to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. In case you don’t have any tissues, cough and sneeze on the inside of your elbow.
Dispose your tissues in the trash and, if possible, wash your hands with water and soap.
2. Wash your hands often
The golden rule for washing your hands is at least 20 seconds. Wash with soap and water especially if you just got home from outside. You will also need to wash after you sneeze, cough or blow your nose.
3. Use hand sanitiser with at least 60% of alcohol
It’s important to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. That’s why you will need to wash your hands as often as you can.
In case soap and water are not readily available, you may use hand sanitiser. But make sure that it contains at least 60% of alcohol.
4. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
When you’re at home, it’s best to disinfect frequently touched surfaces. There are some surfaces that the whole family may use more than others such as:
– Doorknobs
– Refrigerator handle
– Remote control
– Other appliances with handles
– Phones
– Computer/laptop
5. Stay physically fit
It’s highly doable to stay physically fit while you’re at home. You don’t need to go outside unless it’s absolutely necessary. Here are some things that you can do to stay healthy:
– Exercise regularly
– Eat a nutritious diet
– Avoid smoking
You may also avoid alarmist news to avoid stress. Get connected with your friends and family or try out a new hobby when you have the time.
6. Monitor your health
It’s a great idea to monitor your health on the regular. Check on how you are feeling.
If you are showing some symptoms of COVID-19 at home, seek medical advice or self-isolate yourself from others.
7. Wear your mask
Remember to always mask up when you step outside. Wear it over your nose and mouth.
Even if you don’t feel sick, you still risk the spread of COVID-10 to other people.
While we wait for things to get better, these preventive measures will help yourself and everyone in your community to stay safe.