The Coronavirus pandemic has transformed our daily lives. When the quarantine started in March, no one knew how long it was going to last. It is important to be vigilant and take Coronavirus precautions so we can keep ourselves healthy.
To stay healthy, you need to take extra care of yourself. Here are 5 ways you can stay healthy during the Coronavirus.
- Wash Your Hands
People commonly get sick by not washing their hands after being in a public place, then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. The CDC says the Coronavirus will naturally live on surfaces anywhere from hours to days. Touching an infected surface and then touching your face could expose you to the virus. The Red Cross urges people to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Carry hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- Disinfect Surfaces Daily
Surfaces that are touched often require extra attention when cleaning. Tables, doorknobs, toilets, and faucets should be disinfected as often as someone uses them. The EPA has a list of approved disinfectants, but if you can also use what you already have on hand. 70% alcohol solutions or diluted bleach are shown to be effective in killing the Coronavirus. Wear gloves when you are cleaning with chemicals. Be mindful of mixing cleaning solutions, as some can create toxic fumes.
- Social Distance
Since the virus is believed to be mainly spread through human contact, avoiding close contact with people decreases your chances of getting sick. You can practice social distancing by eliminating non-essential travel and staying at home as much as possible. When you are out, stay at least six feet away from others. In addition to social distancing, wearing a face mask will protect those around you when you are in public.
- Exercise
Minding your wellbeing is another way to stay healthy during the pandemic. Exercise is important to keeping your body healthy, and studies show it boosts your immune system and lowers stress. Most gyms are open at limited capacity, but going back may be an unnecessary risk. Consider an activity that will allow you to social distance: you can go walking or hiking outdoors, you can follow exercise videos in your home, or you can take a virtual fitness class.
- Sleep
Studies show that sleeping will boost your immune system, making it harder for you to get sick. There are many additional benefits to getting a good night’s rest, including weight control, better mood, reduced stress, and lower risk of depression. The CDC recommends adults get 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Children need even more sleep, averaging 9 to 12 hours every night.
It’s not an easy time for us, but we can get through the Coronavirus pandemic together. Following the suggestions above will keep you and your family safe until we can see each other again without fear. For more tips on staying healthy, visit our home page.
References
- “Coronavirus Safety Tips for Everyone.” – https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/coronavirus-safety.html
- “Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting” – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/pdf/Reopening_America_Guidance.pdf#:~:text=Coronaviruses%20on%20surfaces%20and%20objects,and%20dirt%20from%20surfaces.
- “List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-Cov-2 (COVID-19).” – https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2-covid-19
- “Exercise is Essential for Well-Being During COVID-19 Pandemic.” – https://patients.healthquest.org/exercise-is-essential-for-well-being-during-covid-19-pandemic/#:~:text=However%2C%20here%20are%20a%20few,infections%2C%20including%20COVID%2D19.
- “Covid-19: lifestyle tips to stay healthy during the pandemic.” – https://health.mil/News/Articles/2020/05/22/COVID-19-lifestyle-tips-to-stay-healthy-during-the-pandemic
