With its rapid infection rate, the coronavirus continues to spread throughout the globe with the number of global cases increasing each day. Efforts to contain this disease must be taken seriously. One of the main interventions is to limit social interaction and stay at home in order to “flatten the curve” – but what does it mean to flatten the curve?
What is "the curve"?
Source: lifescience.com
The curve essentially refers to the rate of the disease’s spread. It assumes that the number of COVID-19 cases remain the same, but distributed more evenly across a longer period of time. This intervention aims to reduce the number of large spikes in COVID-19 cases, as it is a highly contagious disease with no available vaccine yet.
Why do we need to flatten the curve?
To flatten the curve means to slow down and delay the spread of the virus. It’s crucial to reduce the rate of infection as a sudden surge of COVID-19 outbreaks is demanding on healthcare workers and will overwhelm hospitals, making it detrimental for our healthcare system. When too many people fall sick at once, resources will be spread thin, making it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need. Reducing the number of cases at a time will help lessen the burden on healthcare workers.
How can you help flatten the curve?
Social distancing helps flatten the curve by keeping people far apart from one another to prevent the spread of coronavirus from person to person. This takes a collective effort from everyone, which is why it’s important to follow the safety guidelines set by health officials. Some of these guidelines include:
- Standing 6 feet away from others
- Avoiding physical contact with non-household members
- Cancelling events where people gather
- Working from home
- Restricting travel
- Limiting time spent in public areas
Adhering to these measures will minimise the transmission of COVID-19, protecting you and those around you.
Other safety measures during COVID-19
While the spread of the Coronavirus may seem like it’s slowing down, we still have to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and lessen the impact of COVID-19 in the Philippines. Everyone has to do their part in order to flatten the curve. Apart from social distancing, other steps you can take to protect yourself are to wear a mask in public, sanitize your hands regularly, and to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth area. Familiarize yourself with the full range of COVID-19 symptoms, so that you will be able to identify it in the unfortunate event that you may have contracted the virus.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 or have come into contact with someone that tested positive, it’s important for you to get tested as soon as possible. Get covered for your COVID-19 tests and confinement for both mild and severe cases with Singlife. We’ve partnered with GCash to bring you Cash for Dengue Costs with free COVID-19 cover. Sign up on our website to learn more about our upcoming and existing protection products today.
