In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, we are all on high alert in an attempt to not contract the disease. The coronavirus disease, or COVID-19, is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization. So, how does one protect themselves and their family?
To decrease your chance of getting sick, practice and maintain proper hygiene habits suggested below as well as directed by your doctor.
Disinfecting highly used surfaces can help eliminate lingering germs. Certain types of viruses can stick around for days! Think about anything you touch daily, such as light switches, doorknobs, faucet handles, toilet handles, refrigerator handle, microwave handle and buttons, cabinets, drawers, thermostat, remote controls, computers, keyboards and cell phones! Make sure to read the directions on your cleaning product, because most suggest allowing the product to sit on the surface for at least a minute if not longer.
Some things should be pretty obvious, but let’s go over them anyways.
If at all possible, try avoiding others who are sick. If it’s your spouse, maybe sleep in another room. If it’s a friend, peer or colleague, do your best to not hug them or shake their hand. And in general, avoid crowds and visit restaurants, grocery stores, etc. not during peak times.
When you are out and about amongst people, do your very best to not touch your face! Even though it can be hard and oh so tempting, please avoid it! If you catch yourself doing it habitually, try carrying around with you a tube of hand sanitizer. Though it is no way near a replacement for hand washing, it can be a quick, temporary solution.
Keep your first line of defense as strong as it can be – your body! That means not only fueling it with the proper foods and keeping it hydrated as well as in tip-top-shape, but also boosting your immune system with vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C can help your immune system the most, especially if it’s under attack. Also, probiotics have been known to stimulate your immune system.
Last but certainly not least (in fact it should probably be your top priority) is to wash your hands! You’ve heard it time and time again, but it really is your best defense against germs. But only if you are washing them properly and frequently; that means for at least 20 seconds under hot water with soap. To help you with the timing, try singing the classic “Happy Birthday” song.