One of the most frequently used words of 2020-21 is Covid-19. We are all going through the phase in our lives when the word Covid-19 is either read, heard, spoken or thought about at least once every day. Each and every one of us is trying to make sure that the pandemic doesn’t reach our home.
So how do you protect yourself from Covid-19? Here is a consolidated list of things required to prevent infection.
Vaccination
One of the most important things we can do to end the pandemic is to get ourselves vaccinated. Whichever vaccine you chose is going to help you against infection. click here to register for Indian made version of Astra Zeneca’s Vaxzevria jab-Covishield, Bharat Biotech’s- Covaxin and the Russian vaccine Sputnik V produced by Morepan.
Practice Good Hand Hygiene
Remember the basics, keep your hands clean. it sounds simple but it’s true. Wash them thoroughly using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. It helps prevent the transmission of the virus. It’s always a good idea to wash your hands before eating, after using the washroom and after coughing or sneezing.
click here to know how to wash hands properly.
Wear a Mask
Everyone must wear a mask, irrespective of whether one has been vaccinated or not. We all know wearing a mask is not exactly comfortable but most people get used to it quite quickly. It also compensates for the lack of social distancing. Wearing the right mask, the right way helps protect not only the people around but the wearer as well. it is important to have a snug fitting mask. this means the air you breathe in and out will be pushed through the mask’s fabric layer so that the virus particles are likely to get trapped in the mask rather than be inhaled.
This also means your mask is dirty needs to be handled carefully and washed after every wear. If you do need to take it off occasionally, hold it by the ear straps and avoid touching the parts that cover your nose and mouth. also remember to clean your hands before and after touching your mask. A mask can protect you from covid-19
You can get your masks here.
Wear a Shield
Along with masks, some people use face shields to protect eyes, nose and mouth simultaneously from the risk of direct contact with germs. It is advisable to wear a face shield if you are in a profession that requires you to meet a lot of people or you are not able to maintain physical distance.Studies show that additional eye protection decreases transmission. Shields can also be a reminder not to touch your face.
A face shield is usually attached to the forehead with the help of an elastic band. It has a transparent polycarbonate sheet on the front that protects you from dust particles, accidental splashes and direct exposure to microorganisms. Some of the popular face shields are available from Steelbird, Studds, MaxCare and Oriley.
Use Disinfectant Sprays, Sanitizers, Antibacterial Wipes
Clean hands are important not just before you eat but anytime you touch your face or mask. Washing your hands is ideal however that is not always possible. Objects that require frequent cleaning are your phones, keys, wallets, sun glasses or anything else that you touch or set on dirty surfaces. As soon as you pick them up from counters or restaurant tables your hands are infected as well.
Use sanitizers and disinfectant sprays to keep your hands and accessories clean and stay safe. Most sanitizers work in a few seconds. Make sure to take a little amount on your palms and rub properly including your wrists and in between your fingers. Popular sanitizer brands are Himalaya, Lifebuoy, Dettol & Savlon.
Disinfectant sprays and wipes can also be used to eliminate germs from door handles, parcels, public spaces and more.These sprays are the best choice for the surfaces that you cannot wash with soap and water. There is no need to wipe the surface after spraying and the surface dries up within 5-10 seconds. Some of the popular disinfectant sprays are brands like Savlon, Dettol, Lifebuoy & Bodyguard.
UV Sterilizers
UVC Light can be used to kill the new coronavirus. it can also be used to disinfect surfaces. You can use these steralizers to sterilize mobile phones, currency notes, wallets, air pods, water bottles, keys etc. that are in your hand when you are outdoors. These units are generally compatable with plastic, metal, leather and fabric and are easily available at amazon.in .
Air Purifiers
Experts say air purifiers may not be very effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19 in closed spaces. Opening windows or using air purifier’s in indoor spaces are meant to compliment other methods such as wearing masks and physical distancing, not replace them.
Gloves
The use of gloves is not recommended when you go out. Just as you can spread germs from your hands you can also spread infection from the gloves you are wearing to your eyes, nose and mouth.You can also infect the objects you touch. Remember gloves are only effective if you are using and discarding them properly.