With the current Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) global outbreak, many people are concerned with how to keep themselves safe. Many countries have gone into lockdown and imposed travel bans to restrict movements in order to prevent the spread of the virus. While there is no foolproof way on how to prevent a virus infection, there are still a number of things you can do to protect yourself and keep safe, not just from COVID-19, but for other infectious diseases as well.
1. Wash Hands Regularly
Washing your hands with soap is one of the most important defences against the spread of germs. This is because the hands come into contact with many surfaces throughout the day and people tend to touch their face without realising it. This could lead to germs entering the body via the eyes, nose, and mouth. Unwashed hands may also contaminate food and drinks, transfer to other items or another person’s hands, further spreading the germs to others. The practice of preventing infection through handwashing not only protects yourself but the people around you as well.
2. Clean & Disinfect
High-touch areas should be wiped down frequently with water and soap or a disinfectant. This includes light switches, handles, doorknobs, remote controls, as well as electronics such as your phone and computer. With proper hygiene and sanitation, you can help reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
3. Wear a Mask
Wearing a mask to cover your nose and mouth when you are out in public is a preventive measure that helps protect other people in case you are infected. This is because in some cases, a person may be unaware they’ve contracted the virus before any symptoms start to show. This precautionary measure helps keep everyone safe in cases like these.
4. Cover Your Mouth & Nose
When sneezing or coughing, be sure to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your hands, followed by disposing the tissue and washing your hands. Practicing good personal hygiene is not only sanitary, it also protects you and everyone around you from catching viruses such as cold, flu, and COVID-19.
5. Practice Social Distancing
While staying at home and avoiding public spaces are encouraged during an outbreak, this may not be possible for some people. If you’re going out, try to avoid crowds and close contact with other people. Being in close proximity with others increases your likelihood of catching COVID-19. Whenever possible, keep a safe distance of at least 1 meter away from other people.
Taking precautions to protect yourself is the best way to stay safe from infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Everyone should do their part in minimizing the risks of virus transmission. While measures can be taken for infection prevention and control, unforeseen incidents may still happen. Get additional protection and security from Singlife with the FREE COVID-19 cover that comes with our Dengue Insurance. The COVID-19 cover provides a benefit that partially or fully subsidizes the cost of a COVID-19 screening test. In addition, our insurance product takes into account the stage and severity of the illness. Find out more on our product page.