How to be safe during the COVID-19 outbreak?
The recent Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak is regarded as one of the biggest health challenges ever faced in the world. Starting from Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei province in the People’s Republic of China, the outbreak was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization on 30th January 2020.
The World Health Organization defines COVID-19 as a serious disease caused by a new strain of Coronavirus. The new virus is linked to the same family of viruses that initiated the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002 and some types of cold. It is typically transmitted when one comes in direct contact with the respiratory droplets (generated while coughing or sneezing) of an infected person. Furthermore, people can also get infected if they touch their eyes, nose or mouth after touching virus contaminated surfaces.
Unfortunately, the disease is incurable and there is currently no vaccine available for COVID-19. This has lead to a massive number of demises all around the world. Thus, the WHO advises people to take certain preventive measures in order to ensure the safety of their families in these critical times.
Here are some basic protective measures against the new Coronavirus, as suggested by the World Health Organization:
1. Wash your hands and avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes
Our hands touch various surfaces like electrical equipment, light switches, etc. throughout the day from where they can potentially pick up the virus. This virus can then enter our body via eyes, mouth or nose in case we touch these areas with contaminated hands. In such a scenario, washing hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water for around 20 seconds is the best way to kill the virus. You can also use alcohol-based hand rubs or sanitizers for the same.
2. Social distancing
Social distancing is not only an important preventive measure but also the need of the hour. It safeguards people from getting infected and helps in restricting the virus from spreading. At Wipro Lighting, we give topmost priority to the wellness and safety of our employees, customers, stakeholders, and the community. Hence, we have advised our entire team to work from home in order to promote the idea of social distancing and keep our employees safe during these critical times. Furthermore, WHO also suggests that people should maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from any person who is coughing or sneezing.
3. Practice respiratory hygiene
People are strongly advised to follow good respiratory hygiene. They should always cover their mouth and nose with their bent elbow or a tissue while coughing or sneezing.
4. Seek immediate medical care if you experience fever, cough and breathing difficulties
People should stay at home if they experience any significant symptoms associated with COVID-19. Fever, cough and difficulty in breathing are the primary symptoms of the disease. In case you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical assistance at the earliest.
In addition, it is extremely important to stay informed about the latest updates and advice provided by recognized healthcare providers (only), as well as national and local authorities. One should adhere to the rules and steps taken by the government in order limit the spread of the disease.
