As we continue to be under lockdown and spend our days at home to stay safe from coronavirus contamination, we must be aware the ways to fight COVID-19 transmission at home. While trying to remain safe from the deadly virus many of us are having an array of questions about how to protect us from the infection. These include if we catch the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from food, what type of mask should we wear or how should we do the laundry.
The simple household chores have now become a source of insecurity and anxiety. We are grappling with getting the basic tasks done so that our loved ones safe. Added to that are the widespread myths and misinformation about the virus, which makes the situation more complex. In this blog we will discuss the five most effective ways to fight COVID-19 transmission at home.
1. Basic awareness about COVID-19 and its transmission
Coronavirus spreads when respiratory droplets of an infected person get into the mouth, nose or eyes of another person who is close by. You can also be infected, and spread COVID-19 to others, even if you are asymptomatic. Moreover, you may get infected by touching your mouth, nose or eyes if you touch surfaces that are contaminated with the virus. That said, it is also imperative to have proper knowledge on topics like when emergency care is needed, necessary isolation period, ways to support a sick family member and to manage stress.
2. At-home treatment
While staying at home, many of us might need to provide care to a family member infected with COVID-19 or care for ourselves when infected with the virus. It is important to understand what we can do to avert the spread of infection.
While caring for a sick member, keep the following points in your mind –
- Follow the doctor’s advice while providing care.
- Consult the doctor whenever you have any doubts.
- Remember! Providing care for the infected family member might affect your health.
- If you have underlying medical condition, consider isolating yourself from the infected member and find someone else to provide care.
- Also, if you are sick, assign someone else to take care of your pet.
If you notice any coronavirus symptoms, consult a doctor, get tested and go for home isolation. If you are looking for consulting a general physician online, you can book an appointment with one of the highly experienced and renowned Primary Care Physicians or GPs on DocGenie.
Also read: Health Protocols to Maintain when in Home Quarantine with Covid-19
3. Safety rules while going out
It is also important to have someone specific to be run the errands. This will limit exposures to the infection. You can also assign a particular area for sanitizing the packages bought from stores. You will need to keep certain things handy. These include sanitizers or disinfectants, washing detergent, bin bags, prescription medicines and home pulse oximeter.
Whoever in the family is going out must maintain six feet distance from others, and use masks and gloves. Once back he/she must immediately wash hands with soap. It is recommended to sanitize the packages.
4. Preparing the home
In order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 transmission think of cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, including doorknobs, switches, handles, desks, toilets, taps and sinks. Do this daily. It is also important to keep the windows open for better ventilation.
Remember to wear gloves while cleaning and disinfecting. Disposable gloves are a better idea, as you can dispose them of. If you are using reusable gloves, never use them for other purposes. Wash your hands thoroughly after removing the gloves. After cleaning the surfaces with soap-water, apply disinfectant to eliminate germs that are left behind. While buying disinfectants look for products with ethanol, hydrogen peroxide or quaternary ammonium.
You can clean your mobile phone with disinfecting wipes containing 70 percent alcohol. Start by cleaning the front part of the phone, then the sides and finally the back part. Let it dry. Follow this drill for your computers, laptops, tablets and remote controls. Do not forget to wash your hands once you’re done.
5. Simple hygiene measures to protect against COVID-19
The following simple hygiene measures can go a long way in fighting COVID-19 transmission at home –
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth
- Avoid coughing or sneezing into your hands. While coughing or sneezing cover your mouth and nose with your elbow, napkin or tissue. Throw away the used tissue immediately after use.
- Maintain distance of at least 6 feet from others.
- Avoid sharing items with your sick family member.
- Wear a surgical mask.
- Check for your health daily and if you notice any symptoms of COVID-19 seek medical care.
- Exercise caution. Remember to remove your shoes when you enter your home, wash your hands with soap and water and change into fresh clothes immediately.
- Clean regularly. Make washing of clothes, towels and bed sheets a daily habit. Sun drying your laundry is always good.
- Use clean utensils and plates while eating.
- It is pragmatic not to invite guests at present.
To stay on the top of your health, book a session on DocGenie to know more about COVID-19 symptoms and safety measures. Also, if you are infected our doctors can offer online medical guidance throughout your recovery period.
Also read: Tips to Manage Your Mental Health After Recovering from Covid-19
DocGenie is an online telemedicine platform that provides you with quality healthcare from the comfort of your own space. On DocGenie, you can book an online consultation with highly qualified doctors as well as book lab tests for home collection.