As you can already tell, the novel Coronavirus 19 (aka. COVID19) is creating a lot of hassle. If you would like to learn more about it, read our article, The 2019 Novel Corona Virus Explained.
People all over the world are worried about travelling to other countries that are affected by coronavirus 19 and about importing goods. But before you start to panic, keep in mind that research does not show any benefits in restricting travelling. If we decided to limit travelling and shipment every time an influenza case is diagnosed, we would probably become isolated.
Nevertheless, there a couple of precautions that you can take to reduce the chances of getting coronavirus 19 or any other respiratory virus. So what should you do to protect yourself if you are going to travel in the coming weeks?
1. Wash your hands
Washing your hands is not only to protect you from Coronavirus 19, but it should become a regular thing that you do. Wash your hands before eating, after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing and after you have been out all day. Not only does hand-washing protect you, but more importantly, it protects the people around you.
Now even though you may think its obvious, a lot of people do not wash their hands properly. So here it goes:
Wash your hands with soap and water for 60 seconds
Wash the back of your hand, between your fingers, under your nails and your writs
Dry using a clean, unused towel, or paper towels
If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand rub. Follow the same routine to cover all parts of your hands.
Do not wipe off the alcohol! If you do this, you are not letting it do its job. So keep rubbing your hands together until the alcohol is gone.
2. Cover yourself when sneezing or coughing
This should be given, however many people seem to forget it. If you sneeze or cough, make sure to cover your mouth or nose with a tissue or your elbow. Follow step 1 and rewash your hands after you sneeze or cough.
Ps. Please dispose of tissues properly and do not leave them lying around to spread more germs.
3. Do not touch your mouth or nose
Most individuals have the habit of touching their mouth and nose during the day. So try your best to keep this to a minimum and always wash your hands before touching your face.
The Coronavirus 19 virus will not get you sick by landing on your clothes or skin, but it will get you ill if you open a gate for it to enter your body (through your mouth or nose).
4. Do not visit live food markets
Experts believe that similar to other coronaviruses, the Novel Coronavirus 19 originated in animals and then jumped to humans. So it is ideal that you avoid going to live food markets or getting in close contact with street animals.
5. Keep 1-metre distance from other people
Since the Novel Coronavirus 19 travels through droplets in sneezing or coughing, it can not go far. This means that if you keep a distance of 1-meter from others, you are less likely to contract the virus.
Following these 5 steps should reduce the risk of contracting the Novel Coronavirus 19 while travelling. However, if you notice any symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever or cough within 14 days of travelling to an affected country, you should contact your local health care provider.
Article is written in line with the WHO guidelines
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